Cagayan de Oro City – April 22, 2025 — In a landmark move to promote sustainable tourism and environmental protection, the Department of Tourism (DOT) Region 10 and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region 10 formally launched the “Climb NorthMin: Limitless Mountain Adventures” campaign on Earth Day, April 22, 2025, in Cagayan de Oro City.
The campaign, anchored on boosting mountain tourism while advocating for environmental sustainability, was officially sealed through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement among DOT 10, DENR 10, local government units, and various partner stakeholders. Representatives from public and private agencies, Indigenous Peoples’ organizations, mountaineering groups, and other stakeholders joined the event in a show of solidarity for the region’s ecological and tourism goals.
“Climb NorthMin” features Northern Mindanao’s premier mountain destinations, including the Mt. Kitanglad Range Natural Park in Bukidnon, Mts. Timpoong-Hibok-Hibok Natural Monument in Camiguin, Mt. Balatukan Range Natural Park in Misamis Oriental, Mt. Malindang Range Natural Park in Misamis Occidental, and Mt. Inayawan Range Natural Park in Lanao del Norte.
Four of these mountain ranges—Kitanglad, Timpoong-Hibok-Hibok, Malindang, and Inayawan—are recognized as ASEAN Heritage Parks, signifying their ecological importance and rich biodiversity. During the launch, Protected Area Superintendents (PASUs) presented profiles of each site, showcasing endemic species, eco-tourism features, and conservation efforts.
As part of the campaign, a series of initiatives will roll out throughout the year including quarterly mountain climbs, environmental clean-up drives, and tree planting activities. These will be spearheaded by local governments in coordination with community partners, mountaineering groups, and national agencies such as the Philippine National Police, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and the Philippine Information Agency.
The Earth Day-themed launch also featured a ceremonial tree planting, photo exhibits on the region’s diverse flora and fauna, and a session on mountaineering basics and outdoor safety tips—aimed at encouraging responsible and prepared adventurers.
DOT and DENR officials emphasized that the campaign not only supports eco-tourism but also reinforces climate action, echoing the Earth Day 2025 theme: “Our Power, Our Planet.” The global call advocates for a shift to renewable energy—tripling clean energy generation by 2030 using solar, wind, hydro, geothermal, and tidal sources to replace fossil fuels.
With “Climb NorthMin,” Northern Mindanao steps up as a beacon for sustainable travel, biodiversity conservation, and community-driven environmental action.
