Uncover Apayao: A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
The Philippines is blessed with pure wonders, however one province stood out this 12 months. The landlocked, mountainous province of Apayao within the Cordillera area was designated as one of many 11 new “biosphere reserves” for 2024 by the United Nations Instructional, Scientific, and Cultural Group or UNESCO.
Hutungan River in Pudtol, Apayao. Photograph by the Division of Tourism – Cordillera Administrative Area
The Apayao biosphere reserve, which has an space of three,960 sq. kilometers, “is split into two distinct areas: the Higher Apayao sports activities rugged terrain with towering peaks, plateaus and valleys, whereas the Decrease Apayao options flatlands adorned with rolling hills and plateaus,” in accordance with the UNESCO.
It added the province additionally homes the Apayao River, which “nurtures 18 tributaries throughout the province” with a stretch of 180 kilometers.
UNESCO additionally famous that “ecotourism is progressing in Apayao.”
At current, the provincial authorities of Apayao aggressively promotes its pure sights as a part of efforts to make vacationers contemplate this province as their subsequent vacation spot.
Being a mountainous province, Apayao boasts sights excellent for hikers, journey seekers, and nature lovers who wish to witness and expertise one thing totally different.
Its “dense forests, cascading waterfalls, and serene rivers” make Apayao an “escape from the trendy world,” stated the Division of Tourism’s Cordillera Administrative Area (DOT-CAR) workplace.
Apayao’s seven cities – Sta. Marcela, Luna, Calanasan, Pudtol, Flora, Conner, and the provincial capital Kabugao – host majestic waterfalls that vacationers can get pleasure from. Calanasan has Carmela Falls, whereas Kabugao has Gololan Falls, Anito Falls in Conner, and Pinsal Falls in Flora. Whichever waterfall vacationers select, vacationers searching for peace can get refreshed in its cool waters and be amazed by the abundance of bushes surrounding it.
For vacationers who wish to see caves, the Lussok Crystal Cave and Underground River within the municipality of Luna supply extra. The cave, named after the Ilocano phrase for “gap,” homes “wonderful types of stalactites and stalagmites, together with bats,” in accordance with the Apayao Provincial Tourism Companies Workplace. Additionally, it has an “underground river with crystal clear cool water that discharges right into a blue lagoon appropriate for boating, kayaking and swimming.” It additionally hosts an eco-park, which is “best for nature hikes and birdwatching.”
One vacation spot definitely worth the hike is the Dupag Rock Formation, which sits at a 30-meter hill within the Marag Valley within the city of Luna. Guests can be welcomed to a maze of seven- to eight-foot wavy and sharp limestone rocks. Hikers may even sit on prime of the pointed rocks and marvel on the wonderful view of the Marag Valley.
Additionally value discovering is Mount Sicapoo, trekked by means of a path within the municipality of Calanasan. A significant attraction right here is the Mount Sicapoo Monolith, an enormous boulder that’s seemingly pointed to the sky as if guiding friends on which option to look in the event that they wish to see breathtaking views.
One other attraction off the crushed path is the Hutungan Hidden Paradise within the municipality of Pudtol. This place options big rocks, true to its identify that got here from the Isnag native language, alongside a river the place clear blue water flows. The breathtaking surroundings surrounding the realm makes it considered one of Apayao’s most picturesque locations.
Other than basking in its pure wonders, vacationers itching to get an adrenaline rush may also discover a thrill in Apayao. The Tacang Small Water Impounding Mission (SWIP) within the city of Sta. Marcela provides actions reminiscent of ATV rides and kayaking for guests.
Vacationers may also immerse within the tradition of the Isnag individuals, one of many many indigenous communities in Apayao. Identified for his or her love for nature and heat hospitality, UNESCO stated the neighborhood “upholds the Lapat system, a novel customary observe regulating the usage of pure sources and safety of the surroundings.” This method includes tribal leaders that “prohibit” or “regulate” extreme use of pure sources.
In congratulating Apayao for its UNESCO biosphere reserve recognition, DOT Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco stated it “serves as a testomony to the ecological significance and conservation efforts throughout the province.”
“The Division of Tourism stays dedicated to strengthening initiatives geared toward preserving the pure treasures of the Philippines noting that alongside the nation’s vibrant tradition and wealthy heritage, the varied pure landscapes play a pivotal position in establishing the Philippines as a particular and sought-after journey vacation spot,” she added.
At current, the DOT continues to interact with native governments and tourism stakeholders, particularly in Apayao, giving them an edge with regards to campaigning for his or her respective areas as vacationer locations. Apayao joined Mangan Taku 2024, a meals pageant that includes in style dishes and delicacies from the Cordillera area organized by the DOT-CAR. Additionally, the Marag Tourism Village – the place the Dupag Rock Formation is discovered – was awarded as a runner-up in DOT-CAR’s Seek for the Greatest Tourism Village.
Apayao joins the provinces of Albay and Palawan, in addition to seashore and dive spot Puerto Galera – all in style vacationer locations within the Philippines – within the listing of UNESCO’s biosphere reserves.
A gem ready to be found, Apayao has confirmed to be another excuse to like the Philippines. With its unspoiled pure magnificence, vacationers will study the worth of preserving nature for extra generations of vacationers, each Filipino and international, to see and recognize.
Apayao may be reached from the Philippines’ capital Manila by each private and non-private transport by land, which might take 13 hours. It’s best to go to the province from February to Might when the new season prevails throughout the nation.
For extra details about the Philippines, go to https://thephilippines.on-line or obtain the Journey PH app on Android and iOS.
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