THE PHILIPPINES is known to be one of the 18 mega-biodiverse countries in the world, containing two-thirds of the earth’s biodiversity and between 70% and 80% of the world’s plant and animal species. Davao Region is also gifted with its vast natural wealth found from its reefs to high mountain ridges.
Ensuring that these natural treasures continue to be protected, the Department of Tourism Xl, with its “Love Inspired: The Philippine Canvass of Biodiversity” nationwide campaign unveiled the Biodiversity Mural last August 27 at Mount Hamiguitan Natural Science Museum in San Isidro, Davao Oriental. This is in partnership with the Province of Davao Oriental and Davao Oriental State University.
Crafted by artists Gorjel Llanita, Danver Palmiano, Bryan Handucana, Klyder Kyann Rule, Maria Theresa Pecaña, Princess Balquin, Henrex Hernandez, Dennis Lingan, Holando Ocon, Jefferey Montemayor, Rowen Ayo and Mayc Dave Tupasan of Kwadro-Uni Arts and Outdoors Club of the Davao Oriental State University of the Kwadro-Uni Arts and Outdoors Club of Davao Oriental State University, the 18-meter Mural is a visual testament of the diverse flora and fauna and the unique landscapes found within the Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary, an ASEAN Heritage Park and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
During the ceremony, Davao Oriental Governor Nino Sotero L. Uy, Jr. emphasized the importance of sustainable development, stating that “preserving our natural resources and protecting our ecosystem is essential for the well-being of our communities and future generations.”
DOT XI regional director Rabat-Tan echoed this sentiment, highlighting the mural’s role in raising awareness about the need for continued sustainability efforts.
In a video message, DOT Assistant Secretary Gissela Marie R. Quisumbing urged the people of Davao Region to “collectively pledge to safeguard the natural richness of our country starting with small changes in our daily lives by adopting a more sustainable lifestyle.”
Mount Hamiguitan is home to a host of globally threatened and endemic flora and fauna species, eight of which are found nowhere else except in Mount Hamiguitan. This included critically endangered trees, and plants along with the iconic Philippine Eagle and Philippine Cockatoo.
