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The Philippines Department of Tourism is honoured to announce that the island nation has received a number of awards for its conservation and sustainability efforts.  The Philippines is a key gateway into Southeast Asia and is now among the fastest growing economies in the region.  With more than 7,641 islands filled with indescribable natural beauty, an array of special experiences and travel highlights drawing travellers to the region, the protection and sustainability of The Philippines’ is more important than ever.

Norjamin Delos Reyes, Tourism Attaché at Philippine Department of Tourism Australia and New Zealand said,

“The Philippines is a country rich with natural and cultural beauty, and travellers are becoming increasingly aware of the stunning beauty of the Philippines.  It is important to the future of our tourism industry that our beaches, rainforests and wildlife are protected and we are pleased to be recognised in a number of awards for conservation and sustainability efforts.

“Ecotourism plays a vital part in conservation, with more and more travellers choosing to visit The Philippines to experience its flora and fauna in an environmentally responsible way.  This has meant great success for areas like the Masungi Geo-reserve, and the Palina Greenbelt Eco-park, both of which recently received awards for their contributions to the preservation of their local areas.”

 The Masungi Georeserve

The Masungi Georeserve was recognised by the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) Awards in Enterprises for “Innovations for Conservation”.  Located in the Province of Rizal, the georeserve has many remarkable achievements, including: planting and nurturing over 40,000 native trees; protecting 60 million year old limestones; educating around 100 locals in geotourism and conservation; and equipping 200 nearby homes with water filters.

Palina Greenbelt River Cruise

At the recent Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) awards, The Philippines’ Palina Greenbelt River Cruise was amongst the winners in the “Urban and Rural Sustainable Products” category.  On board the Palina Greenbelt River Cruise, eco-tourists can enjoy a boat trip around natural waterways, including interactions with the local birdlife.  Visitors are encouraged to get involved in their surrounds, including the chance to plant mangroves and cook with the locals.

 Walk on the Wild Side

Palawan’s Walk on the Wild Side was amongst the winners at the ASEAN awards in the “Rural Sustainable Products” category.  Guests of Palawan’s Walk on the Wild Side have a chance to meet local lizards and exotic birds on a three day jungle trekking adventure.  Rainforest tours, including the UNESCO world heritage-listed underground river, are planned around the rich local culture, with opportunities for travellers to meet and greet the locals aplenty.

Strategies like these are working in The Philippines’ favour, with Conde Nast Traveler recently announcing the winners of its reader’s choice awards, with The Philippines’ Siargao, Boracay and Palawan taking out the top three spots in the 5 best Islands in Asia.

For more information, visit Tourism Philippines at https://www.tourismphilippines.com.au/.