I am writing this column in Bonn, Germany, following the global observance event conclusion of the 2024 United Nations Desertification and Drought Day. I had the honor of being invited to this event and was formally designated as one of 10 “Land Heroes” — young leaders under 35 who are...
This Earth Month, our focus shifts not only to the usual suspects of pollution and waste but to a more pressing and often overlooked crisis: the peril facing our protected areas. Recent weeks have seen a surge of concerns, as uproar emanates from popular hot spots like Bohol’s Chocolate Hills,...
In the heart of the Philippines, a country celebrated for its staggering biodiversity, an activity traditionally reserved for the most ardent nature enthusiasts is taking flight in the mainstream: birding. Long perceived as a niche pastime for dedicated scientists and nature lovers, this...
In the ever-evolving digital landscape, where social media reigns supreme, TikTok has emerged as the latest battleground for the heart and soul of the people. As a former marketer with a keen eye on social trends, I've tried to navigate the treacherous waters of TikTok, a platform often dismissed...
As I sat glued to the livestream of the Earth Wisdom Keepers session at the Davos World Economic Forum, I couldn't help but swell with pride and a sense of urgency. There, my sister, Ann Dumaliang, co-founder and trustee of the Masungi Georeserve Foundation in the Philippines, was addressing a...
With over 2,800 delegates from 120 countries, Filipina conservationist Ann Dumaliang from Masungi Georeserve Foundation Inc. (MGFI) is partaking in the World Economic Forum (WEF) 2024 held in Davos, Switzerland, from Jan. 15 to 19. Focusing on critical areas such as climate action and...
As the echoes of the 28th Conference of Parties of the UN Convention on Climate Change (COP 28) fade, I find myself contemplating the essence of genuine civil society involvement in the realms of nature, climate, and governance. This introspection stems from my organization's inaugural...
By BILLIE DUMALIANG In the vibrant expanse of the Philippines, a vast treasure lies hidden in plain sight — over 100,000 hectares of a lush national park and wildlife sanctuary spanning parts of Rizal, Quezon, and other neighboring provinces. Interestingly, this was an initiative by President...
On May 22, the world celebrates the International Day of Biological Diversity, which aims to shed light on issues surrounding the vast array of plant and animal life on earth. Biodiversity and their ecosystems are the cornerstone of all life, from which our food, medicine, energy, and water,...
When you think of tourism in the Philippines, white sand beaches probably come to mind. But for those who want to explore, the country has much to offer those who love nature and mountains. One of these is the Masungi Georeserve in Baras, Rizal province, where one can commune with nature, walk...
She had been a long-forgotten dream, only subsisting in faint memories of a ‘90s family road trip. Today, her allure grows more than ever, thanks to the monuments and men (and women) who have shaped her. More than 20 years after I first visited Ilocos Norte, I returned with a lens of naturalism...
The House of Representatives launched last week an investigation in aid of legislation on the alleged unauthorized and unlawful activities at the Masungi Georeserve in Rizal. Cavite 4th district Rep. Elpidio Barzaga Jr. (left) and Surigao del Norte 2nd district Rep. Robert Ace Barbers (Mark...
