Banahaw eco-tourism plans studied

LOS BAÑOS, Laguna – Research activities are now being conducted to boost the eco-tourism potential of mystical Mt. Banahaw in the Southern Tagalog Region.

The studies are being done under the project “A Comprehensive Diagnostic Assessment to Enhance Eco-Tourism in Barangay Kinabuhayan and Taytay in Mt. Banahaw-San Cristobal Protected Landscape (MBSCPL).”

The project is implemented by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (DENR-ERDB) headed by Director Marcial Amaro Jr.

Funding it is the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Agriculture, Forestry and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCARRD) headed by Executive Director Patricio Faylon. Both DENR-ERDB and DOST-PCARRD are based in Los Baños.

Supporting the project are the DENR-Region 4-A; DENR-Protected Area and Wildlife Bureau (PAWB); Quezon Provincial Government Environment and Natural Resources Office; South Luzon State University (SLSU) in Lucban, Quezon; the local government units of Dolores Quezon, Majayjay, Laguna, and San Pablo City; Department of Tourism – Region 4; and Laguna Lake Development Authority.

“Our goal is to provide scientific knowledge that will serve as a basis in establishing an eco­tourism management plan for the MBSCPL,” said Dr. Lope Calanog, ERDB senior science research specialist who is project leader. “We also intend to encourage stakeholders to support and strengthen the project,” he said.

ERDB recognizes the area’s vital role in the economy, religious belief, culture, and health of the people. It is also a habitat for plants and animals.

However, the ERDB research project team noted the alarming condition of the area. Tons of garbage have been dumped and left everywhere because of the increasing number of tourists and pilgrims, most especially during the Lenten season.