Ecotourism sites in the philippines.pptx

Ecotourism Sites in the philippines
Chocolate hills- It has been declared the country's 3rd National Geological Monument on June 18, 1988.
The hills are in the Philippine Tourism Authority's list of tourist destinations in the Philippines.
Chocolate Hills and its immediate environs are relatively flat to rolling topography with elevation ranges from 100 m to 500 m above sea level. It has been declared the country's 3rd National Geological Monument on June 18, 1988 in recognition of its scientific value and geomorphic uniqueness.
Similar to the formations found in Java, the conical and almost symmetrical and same-sized hills known as the "Chocolate Hills", are more aesthetically extensive. These were the uplift of coral deposits and the result of the action of rainwater and erosion. The hills are located throughout the towns of Carmen, Batuan and Sagbayan and consist of about 1,776 mounds of the same general shape. During the dry season when precipitation in inadequate, the grass-covered hills turn chocolate brown, hence the name in reference to a branded confection.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rVvK6Fba02E
Tarsier Sanctuary: The Tarsier Sanctuary, located in Bilar, Bohol, is a 167.64-acre forest reserve that protects and preserves the natural habitat of the Philippine tarsier. Home to the world's smallest primates, the Philippine tarsiers, in their natural habitat.
Loboc River: Known for its serene river cruises through lush tropical landscapes.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UvxsoQ_U_ig


Northern Sierra Madre Natural Park and outlying areas inclusive of the buffer zone
The Northern Sierra Madre Natural Park (NSMNP) is considered one of the most important of the protected areas system of the Philippines. It is the largest protected area in the country and the richest in terms of genetic, species and habitat diversity.
The importance of the park is underscored by the myriad of rare and endangered species of flora and fauna that it supports.
These include Philippine Eagle (Pithecophaga jefferyi ), Golden Crowned Flying Fox (Acerodon jubatus ), Philippine Eagle-Owl ( Bubo philippensis),  Isabela Oriole    (Oriolus isabellae ), Green Sea Turtle  ( Chelonia mydas), Loggerhead Turtle  ( Caretta caretta ), Hawksbill Turtle (Erethmochelys imbricata), Philippine Crocodile  (Crocodylus mindorensis ) and Dugong  ( Dugong dugon ).

1. Ecotourism sites in the philippines

2. Chocolate Hills Natural Monument It has been declared the country's 3 rd  National Geological Monument on June 18, 1988. The hills are in the Philippine Tourism Authority's list of tourist destinations in the Philippines. Chocolate Hills and its immediate environs are relatively flat to rolling topography with elevation ranges from 100 m to 500 m above sea level. It has been declared the country's 3 rd  National Geological Monument on June 18, 1988 in recognition of its scientific value and geomorphic uniqueness. Similar to the formations found in Java, the conical and almost symmetrical and same-sized hills known as the "Chocolate Hills", are more aesthetically extensive. These were the uplift of coral deposits and the result of the action of rainwater and erosion. The hills are located throughout the towns of Carmen, Batuan and Sagbayan and consist of about 1,776 mounds of the same general shape. During the dry season when precipitation in inadequate, the grass-covered hills turn chocolate brown , hence the name in reference to a branded confection. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rVvK6Fba02E

3. Tarsier Sanctuary : The Tarsier Sanctuary, located in Bilar, Bohol, is a 167.64-acre forest reserve that protects and preserves the natural habitat of the Philippine tarsier.  Home to the world's smallest primates, the Philippine tarsiers, in their natural habitat. Loboc River : Known for its serene river cruises through lush tropical landscapes. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UvxsoQ_U_ig

4. Northern Sierra Madre Natural Park and outlying areas inclusive of the buffer zone The Northern Sierra Madre Natural Park (NSMNP) is considered one of the most important of the protected areas system of the Philippines. It is the largest protected area in the country and the richest in terms of genetic, species and habitat diversity. The importance of the park is underscored by the myriad of rare and endangered species of flora and fauna that it supports. These include Philippine Eagle ( Pithecophaga jefferyi   ), Golden Crowned Flying Fox ( Acerodon jubatus  ), Philippine Eagle-Owl (  Bubo philippensis ),  Isabela Oriole    ( Oriolus isabellae  ), Green Sea Turtle   ( Chelonia my das), Loggerhead Turtle  (  Caretta caretta  ), Hawksbill Turtle ( Erethmochelys imbricata ), Philippine Crocodile  ( Crocodylus mindorensis  ) and Dugong  (  Dugong dugon  ).

5. The government of the Philippines decreed the NSMNP a protected area -- the nation's largest -- in 1997. In 2001, a new law granted it permanent protected status, precluding extractive permits. As a permanent member of the Philippines' Protected Area Management Board, CI continues to provide scientific input to inform the planning process, as well as technical assistance and logistical support for park protection.  Major partners: Philippines' Department of Environment and Natural Resources; local government units, both municipal and provincial; NGO for the Protected Area Inc.; Conservation of Priority Protected Areas of the Philippines; Nordic Agency for Development and Ecology; Dutch Ministry for Development Cooperation; Plan International Philippines; University of the Philippines; Isabela State University; Leiden University; the Smithsonian Institution; Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University

6. Donsol , Sorsogon Whale Shark Interaction : One of the best places in the world to swim with whale sharks (locally known as butanding ) in their natural environment. https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=7xbKG9RsX2c Donsol is a small fishing village in the southernmost province of Sorsogon in the Luzon region of the Philippines that has increasingly risen in popularity because of these whale sharks.  It has been recognized as the “Whale Shark Capital of the World”.  These gentle giants, or butanding , as they are locally called, populate the waters from November to June with February to April being the best times to see them.  Whale sharks cruise these waters because their primary food sources, plankton and algae, are abundant in Donsol River, which feeds into Donsol Bay. The whale shark , which can grow up to a length of 41 feet and a weight of 43,000 pounds or more, is the largest fish in the world. 

7. Apo Reef Natural Park Apo Reef is the second largest contiguous coral reef in the world and the largest one in the Philippines . The Apo Reef Natural Park consists of the three islands. Apo Reef is the largest among the three islands. It has a shallow lagoon with a depth of 2 meters to 10 meters surrounded by mangrove forest which serves as source of food, nursery and spawning ground of several coastal and marine species of fauna and sanctuary of birds. Its diverse corals are approximately 34 sq. km. of reef where different species of fish, marine mammals and invertebrates thrive. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UTjBFLOQ9fs

8. Apo Reef was proclaimed as Protected Area under the category of Natural Park and it Surrounding waters as buffer zone by virtue of Presidential Proclamation No. 868, dated September 6, 1996. The Apo Reef Natural Park (ARNP) and its peripheral Buffer Zone covers an area of 15,792 hectares and 11,677 hectares, respectively, totaling 27,469 hectares in all.

9. Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park The Tubbataha Reef Marine Park covers 96,828 ha, including the North and South Atolls and the Jessie Beazley Reef. It is a unique example of an atoll reef with a very high density of marine species; the North Islet serving as a nesting site for birds and marine turtles. The site is an excellent example of a pristine coral reef with a spectacular 100-m perpendicular wall, extensive lagoons and two coral islands. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cGRvFUvxhAQ

10. Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park  It protects an area of almost 100,000 hectares of high quality marine habitats containing three atolls and a large area of deep sea. The property is home to a great diversity of marine life. Whales, dolphins, sharks, turtles and Napoleon wrasse are amongst the key species found here. The reef ecosystems support over 360 species of coral and almost 700 species of fish. The reserve also protects one of the few remaining colonies of breeding seabirds in the region.

11. Callao Cave Located in Peñablanca , this cave system is one of the most famous in the Philippines, featuring multiple chambers and a natural cathedral-like formation. The first chamber, with its large opening, allows sunlight to illuminate the cave's interior, creating a dramatic effect. Callao Cave was visited by American  Governor-General   Theodore Roosevelt Jr.  in 1932 who, during his term, created the National Park system of the country with the passing of Act No. 3195 in 1932 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V78rkoOJstk

12. Batanes Protected landscapes and seascapes Rolling Hills and Marlboro Country : Offers breathtaking views of undulating hills and rugged coastlines. Valugan Boulder Beach : Unique boulder-strewn beach with dramatic ocean views. Marlboro Country, locally called Racuh a Payaman , is a vast pastureland situated in the island of Batan in Batanes. It is one of the most visited tourists’ attractions in the island. Tourists often call the place “Marlboro Country” because it was highly associated with the setting of Marlboro cigarette’s commercial. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jWQtX8n-Fnc

13. Batanes Protected landscapes and seascapes Characterized by a complex of terrestrial, wetland and marine ecosystem, the Batanes group of islands consist of 10 small islands bounded by the Eashi Channel on the north, by the Pacific Ocean on the east, by the South China Sea on the west and the Balintang Channel on the south. It is one of the last remaining areas in the Philippines having unique natural physiographic features (wave-cut cliffs, cave-like outcrops, secluded white sand beaches) resulting from its position where strong winds and fast currents have etched out its distinct morphology. It is an important flyaway for many migratory bird species, and the deper portions of the marine environment are the few remaining sites where pink and red corals ( Corallum sp.) are found. The site is the only area in the Philippines where traditional architecture is of stone in response to the wind and monsoon stresses rather than of the more typical, tropical, impermanent materials (wood, bamboo, thatch) cxommonly used in village architecture. Due to its isolation from the rest of the country, the traditional culture of the area has likewise remained intact.

14. Mt. Pulag National Park Mt. Pulag National Park lies on the north and south spine of the Grand Cordillera Central that stretches from Pasaleng , Ilocos Norte to the Cordillera Provinces. It falls within the administrative jurisdiction of two (2) Regions: Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) and Cagayan Valley (R2). Mt. Pulag National Park is the highest peak in Luzon and is the second highest mountain in the Philippines with an elevation of 2,922 m. above sea level. There are other comparative sites in the country like Mount Kanlaon , Negros- located in the central highlands of Negros, this mountain is home to various species of ferns, lichens, and orchids. It is also inhabited by numerous species of tropical birds. Among them are hundred endemic species of bleeding heart pigeons and the nearing to extinction, Negros Fruit Doves.

15. Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras For 2,000 years, the high rice fields of the Ifugao have followed the contours of the mountains. The fruit of knowledge handed down from one generation to the next, and the expression of sacred traditions and a delicate social balance, they have helped to create a landscape of great beauty that expresses the harmony between humankind and the environment.

16. The Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras is an outstanding example of an evolved, living cultural landscape that can be traced as far back as two millennia ago in the pre-colonial Philippines. The terraces are located in the remote areas of the Philippine Cordillera mountain range on the northern island of Luzon, Philippine archipelago. While the historic terraces cover an extensive area, the inscribed property consists of five clusters of the most intact and impressive terraces, located in four municipalities.  They are all the product of the Ifugao ethnic group, a minority community that has occupied these mountains for thousands of years.

17. The five inscribed clusters are; the Nagacadan terrace cluster in the municipality of Kiangan , a rice terrace cluster manifested in two distinct ascending rows of terraces bisected by a river; the Hungduan terrace cluster that uniquely emerges into a spider web; the central Mayoyao terrace cluster which is characterized by terraces interspersed with traditional farmers’  bale  (houses) and  alang  (granaries); the Bangaan terrace cluster in the municipality of Banaue that backdrops a typical Ifugao traditional village; and the Batad terrace cluster of the municipality of Banaue that is nestled in amphitheatre -like semi-circular terraces with a village at its base. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Of6tZli23UY

18. palawan 1. Puerto- Princesa Subterranean River National Park This park features a spectacular limestone karst landscape with an underground river. One of the river's distinguishing features is that it emerges directly into the sea, and its lower portion is subject to tidal influences . The area also represents a significant habitat for biodiversity conservation. The site contains a full 'mountain-to-sea' ecosystem and has some of the most important forests in Asia. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IHgC7GOOF7Q

19. The property, comprising an area of approximately 22,202 ha, contains an 8.2km long underground river. The Puerto- Princesa Subterranean River National Park features a spectacular limestone or karst landscape. It contains an underground river that flows directly to the sea. The lower half of the river is brackish and subject to ocean tide. The associated tidal influence on the river makes this a significant natural phenomenon. The river’s cavern exhibits dramatic speleothems and several large chambers of as much as 120m wide and 60m high. Its accessibility and navigability up to 4.5km inland allows it to be experienced by the general public, who can view the magnificent rock formations on a river cruise unequalled by any other similar experience elsewhere in the world.

20. Eight Intact Forest Formations The property contains eight distinct types of forest ecosystems, each with unique characteristics and ecological functions: Forest on Ultramafic Soil - Found on nutrient-poor, metal-rich soils, supporting specialized plant species. Forest on Limestone Soil - Thrives on calcium-rich limestone, often hosting unique plant communities. Montane Forest - Located at higher elevations, typically with cooler temperatures and unique species. Freshwater Swamp Forest - Found in areas with standing fresh water, crucial for various aquatic and semi-aquatic species. Lowland Evergreen Tropical Rainforest - Characterized by high biodiversity and evergreen trees. Riverine Forest - Located along rivers, important for stabilizing banks and providing habitat for numerous species. Beach Forest - Found along coastlines, protecting shorelines from erosion and providing unique habitats. Mangrove Forest - Coastal forests that are vital for protecting coastlines, supporting marine life, and serving as nurseries for fish.

21. El Nido and Bacuit Bay The Big Lagoon  is a must see. The warm and peaceful waters of this lagoon provide the perfect setting for a relaxing swim. The incredibly beautiful  Small Lagoon  also allows you to swim up to a small lagoon hidden behind the cliffs. An experience not to be missed! The largest island of Bacuit Bay is  the island of Cadlao  where you’ll also be able to see the highest peak of the archipelago, reaching 640 meters above the sea level. The island is known for its white sandy beaches, its hidden lagoons, and its abundant marine life, offering one of the best snorkeling spots in the bay. Those who are looking for a bit of privacy will appreciate  the island of Matinloc  and its private beach, only accessible through an underwater tunnel.

22. WORLD FAMOUS DIVING SPOTS With more than  30 dive spots  and  ideal weather , the Bacuit archipelago is one of the best scuba diving destinations in the world . On any given dive, you are likely to see dugongs, manta rays, sea turtles, and a very large number of fish species, some of which are endemic to the Philippines.

23. El Nido -Taytay Managed Resource Protected Area To protect this biodiversity, the Philippine government decided to create the  El Nido -Taytay Managed Resource Protected Area  in 1998. This reserve, which is the largest marine sanctuary in the Philippines, includes a 360-square-kilometer aquatic area, including Bacuit Bay, its islands and islets, the land area around El Nido , and an area near Taytay. The El Nido -Taytay Managed Resource Protected Area is located on the north-western tip of the mainland of Palawan. In 1991, the Government of the Philippines proclaimed Bacuit Bay as a marine reserve. In 1998, the protected area was expanded to include terrestrial ecosystems and portions of the municipality of Taytay. It is now known as El Nido -Taytay Managed Resource Protected Area, which covers over 36,000 hectares of land and 54,000 hectares of marine waters. It contains towering limestone cliffs, beaches, mangroves, clear waters, unique forests over limestone and neat farmlands. It is home to five (5) species of mammals, including the Malayan Pangolin and 16 bird species endemic to Palawan including the threatened Palawan Peacock Pheasant, the Palawan Hornbill and Palawan Scops Owl.  Bacuit bay is also home to the dugong, dolphins and marine turtles, many of which are threatened species. Colorful coral reef fishes are found here. Some of these are the: butterflyfishes, parrotfishes, wrasses, triggerfishes, angelfishes, surgeonfishes , damsel fishes, emperors,snappers , groupers and rabbit fishes.

24. Coron Coron , Palawan, is one of the most stunning ecotourism destinations in the Philippines, renowned for its dramatic landscapes, clear waters, rich biodiversity, and historical significance. Here are the key highlights about Coron : Geography and Natural Beauty Location. Part of the Calamian Islands in northern Palawan. Landscape. Known for its karst limestone cliffs, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear lagoons. Marine Life. Home to diverse marine ecosystems, including vibrant coral reefs and numerous fish species, making it a paradise for divers and snorkelers. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_BQ_z6n16-8

25. Sagada , Mountain Province Hanging Coffins : A cultural and historical site where ancient burial traditions are still practiced. Sumaguing Cave : Known for its impressive limestone formations and adventure caving experiences.

26. The Tabon Cave Complex and all of Lipuun The Tabon Cave Complex and all of Lipuun Point is located on the west coast of Palawan.  It is located on a limestone promontory which is visible from any direction for many kilometers and honeycombed with at least 200 caves and rockshelters .  This point is called  Lipuun  by the local people but marked " Abion Head" on charts made from British surveys in 1851.  The point is about 104 hectares in are and is formed by a number of rounded limestone domes separated by deep chasms.  The some 200 caves located in the limestone formation are collectively known as the Tabon Caves, after the main cave, called Tabon , so named after a megapode bird that digs its nest into the ground. This was the site to first establish the presence of humans in the Philippines during the Pleistocene

27. Siargao Island Diverse Ecosystems Siargao Island is home to diverse ecosystems, from dense forests to expansive wetlands. The island’s biodiversity is a result of its unique geography, which includes coastal and inland areas. This makes it an excellent destination for eco-tourists who want to explore and appreciate different types of ecosystems. You can trek through the island’s forests, visit its mangrove forests, or take a boat tour through its wetlands to experience its diverse ecosystems firsthand. Sustainable Tourism Practices:   Siargao Environmental Awareness Movement (SEAM) , https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ESH4HZYjrlw

28. Siargao Island Community-Based Tourism One of the best things about Siargao Island is its strong sense of community, which has been instrumental in promoting sustainable tourism practices. Many of the island’s eco-tourism initiatives are community-led, meaning that local communities are directly involved in promoting and managing sustainable tourism practices. This helps preserve the island’s natural resources and benefits local communities by providing them with income and employment opportunities.

29. Protection and management requirements