THE Department of Environment and Natural Resources in Davao Region (DENR-Davao) urges the Davao City Council to declare Mt. Apo Natural Park (MANP) as a geological monument.
In his privilege speech at the Sangguniang Panlungsod on Tuesday, May 16, DENR-Davao regional director Bagani Evasco said the declaration from the City Council would raise awareness on the importance of MANP and help strengthen efforts to recognize it as a Unesco Global Geological Park (UGGP).
“Mt. Apo is a natural wonder that boasts a diverse range of geological features and is considered a treasure trove of scientific, educational, and cultural value,” he said.
In a statement on Wednesday, May 17, DENR-Davao said the UGGP recognition would strengthen the protection and conservation efforts at MANP and heighten community awareness.
The UGGP inscription of MANP would cover three cities and four municipalities, that include Davao City, Sta. Cruz, Digos City, Bansalan, Makilala, City of Kidapawan, and Magpet.
Meanwhile, DENR-Davao said a proposed establishment of a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (Unesco) Base Camp at MANP in Brgy. Ilomavis, Kidapawan City, North Cotabato is currently underway.
In a separate statement on May 16, DENR-Davao also said that the Unesco Base Camp in MANP will serve as a hub for visitors and researchers who want to explore Mt. Apo. It will also promote sustainable tourism and conservation efforts in MANP.
DENR-Davao is coordinating with the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (Penro) of Kidapawan and the Energy Development Corporation (EDC) for the possibility of establishing the base camp.