The Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) officially launched Mountain Tourism in Northern Mindanao on Tuesday, spotlighting the captivating trails within the region’s esteemed Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Heritage Parks.
During the opening ceremony, DOT 10 (Northern Mindanao) Director Marie Elaine Unchuan noted that this collaborative initiative with DENR aims to introduce adventurous tourists and mountaineers to the critical importance of a balanced ecosystem while promoting the preservation of the region’s diverse natural flora and fauna within its majestic mountain ranges.
“Northern Mindanao has long been celebrated for its abundant natural landscapes, and today marks a significant step forward as we strategically position the region as a premier destination for responsible and well-managed mountain tourism,” Unchuan said.
The campaign will showcase the ASEAN Heritage Parks over a year, with destinations highlighted every quarter. The inaugural climb is scheduled for Mount Kitanglad in Bukidnon province from April 24 to 26, marking the first quarter of the campaign.
The second quarter will offer opportunities to explore the unique trails of Mount Timpoong-Hibok-Hibok in Camiguin province. Mount Malindang in Misamis Occidental province and Mount Balatukan in Misamis Oriental are slated as the featured destinations for the third quarter. The final quarter climb will take place at the scenic Mount Inawayan in Lanao del Norte.
To ensure the responsible enjoyment and preservation of these natural treasures, the DOT, DENR, and participating provincial governments signed a memorandum of agreement, emphasizing the importance of adhering to environmental laws and practicing responsible mountaineering ethics during all climbs.
The launch of the Mountain Tourism campaign also recognized Lt. Commander Carina Dayondon of the Philippine Coast Guard as the official Mountain Tourism ambassador for Northern Mindanao.
Dayondon, a native of Bukidnon, holds the distinction of being the first Filipino woman to conquer the highest peaks on all seven continents. She shared that Mount Kitanglad played a pivotal role in her development as a mountaineer. (PNA)