Davao Oriental, Philippines – The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) of Glan, in collaboration with the Protected Area Management Office – Sarangani Bay Protected Seascape (PAMO-SBPS), successfully conducted a two-day training aimed at enhancing biodiversity conservation and ecotourism management skills among environmental managers. The training took place on February 6-7, 2025, at Mt. Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary and Aliwagwag Falls Protected Landscape.
The initiative sought to equip DENR field personnel with essential knowledge and skills to strengthen conservation efforts and implement sustainable ecotourism practices in protected areas. Participants engaged in hands-on learning experiences, strategic planning workshops, and discussions focused on best practices in protected area management.
Experts introduced effective conservation strategies utilized at Mt. Hamiguitan and Aliwagwag Falls, shedding light on biodiversity threats and the corresponding protection measures. Emphasis was placed on the role of ecotourism in fostering community participation and ensuring sustainability.
Among the attendees were CENRO Glan and PAMO-SBPS officers, park rangers, wildlife enforcers, and environmental specialists. They actively participated in site visits, case study discussions, and interactive workshops, which facilitated the identification of transferrable strategies applicable to their respective areas.
The training concluded with the development of strategic action plans designed to improve conservation efforts in protected areas under their jurisdiction. This initiative reaffirms DENR’s commitment to environmental stewardship and the sustainable management of protected landscapes, ensuring the long-term preservation of biodiversity in Sarangani Province.
