Conservation programs have been made by our government to shelter the endangered and rare species that are residing in our country's rainforests. Among these few are the Philippine eagle, tarsiers, tamaraws and turtles.
We should conserve our cultural and natural heritage because it could be an inspiration for the next generations to come. These are some world heritage sites that could represent our country around the globe for its beauty and uniqueness.
Tubbataha Reef National Marine Park
To protect the reef from unwanted damages the Protected Area Managemet Board (PAMB) had issued a master plan to include entrance fees to divers because as the reefs fame spreads worldwide the number of divers increase vastly that adds pressure to the fragile nature of the reef. This fee will be used also for conservation of the reef.
Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras
The Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras exhibits a great beauty expressing harmony between humankind and the environment. This is why it was declared by the Presidential Decree 260 and Presidential Decree 1505 as a National Treasure. It was also protected by Republic Act No 10066,which provides the protection and conservation of our National Cultural Heritage.
But due to threats to the site and lack of protection and conservation the World Heritage Committee has decided to include the Rice Terraces to the many list of properties which are in danger. It was included to the list because of the abandonment of the terraces. Our government and the Ifugaos should still use the terraces and continue to construct and maintain it.
Puerto-Princesa Subterranean River National Park
The Puerto-Princesa Subterranean River exhibits sensational limestones and features a beautiful underground river. It was inscribed to the list of World Heritage because it exhibits a distinguishing characteristic, it flows directly to the sea and is subjected to tidal influences. It also represents a habitat for the conservation of our biodiversity. The site contains a full sea ecosystem and protects our country's forests.
As a citizen of the Philippines we should also help in conserving and protecting the heritage of our country. Let us be proud of our country.
Sources: http://breakaway.cc/Asia/Philippines/Philippines-Reserves.php
http://www.pcsd.ph/protected_areas/tubbataha.htm
http://www.worldheritagesite.org/sites/riceterracescordilleras.html
http://whc.unesco.org/pg.cfm?cid=31&id_site=722
http://whc.unesco.org/en/danger/
http://whc.unesco.org/pg.cfm?cid=31&id_site=652
Author: Tyrone Magararo