Underground River gets another int’l recognition

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) announced that the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park was bestowed a new international recognition as a “Wetland of International Importance” under the Swiss-based Ramsar Convention, saying it is a big boost to tourism and a source of national pride.

In November last year, the protected area known for its spectacular limestone formations was also proclaimed as one of the world’s New 7 Wonders of Nature, which sealed Puerto Princesa’s place as a top tourism drawer.               

“The Puerto Princesa Underground River has earned its rightful place as an unending source of national pride and a top drawer for tourists,” DENR Secretary Ramon Paje said.

The unveiling of the national park as the country’s fifth Ramsar site was held last Dec. 4 in Sabang, Puerto Princesa City.

The other Ramsar sites in the Philippines are the Agusan Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary in Mindanao, Naujan Lake National Park in Oriental Mindoro, Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary in Cebu, and Tubbataha Reefs National Park in Palawan, which were all included in the 1999 list.