Mati City, Davao Oriental – In a move to strengthen protected area management and biodiversity conservation efforts, the Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) and Protected Area Management Office (PAMO) staff of the Kaliwa River Forest Reserve recently conducted a benchmarking visit to key protected sites in Davao Oriental.
The team, guided by the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) of Davao Oriental, visited the Pujada Bay Protected Landscape and Seascape (PBPLS), Mati Protected Landscape (MPL), and Mt. Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary (MHRWS).
During the visit, the PBPLS and MPL PAMO staff provided a comprehensive briefing that highlighted the ecological significance, operational structures, and community-based programs supporting the sustainability of these protected areas. Emphasis was placed on the successful integration of environmental protection, ecotourism, and active stakeholder engagement.
The delegation explored several key sites, including the Guang-Guang Mangrove Forest and Subangan Museum. They also had the opportunity to visit the MHRWS, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unique biodiversity.
The immersive learning experience enabled the Kaliwa River team to gain practical knowledge and insights into best practices being implemented in Davao Oriental. Meaningful exchanges between personnel from the two regions further enriched the visit, fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing among protected area managers.
The activity is part of the ongoing efforts to enhance the management effectiveness of the Kaliwa River Forest Reserve and contribute to broader conservation goals in the Philippines.