Published on December 8, 2014
Filipinos’ warmth and hospitality are a tourist attraction by themselves, as you’ll find out for yourself in the community-based activities presented here.
1.1. Abatan River Community Life Tour
A leisurely boat ride takes visitors from the Abatan River Visitor Center in the Bohol town of Cortes, sailing down the river to visit five communities in succession. Each stop begins with a hearty song-and-dance welcome by locals, followed by a series of activities that provide a glimpse of the locality’s livelihood and culture. The trip concludes at the Kawasan Falls, from which adventure-minded guests can take an optional side-tour to the Green Recreational Eco-Adventure Tour (G.R.E.A.T.) Catigbian Park. Tel: +63 917 010 599, www.riverlife.ph.
1.2. Gawad Kalinga Enchanted Farm Summer Camp / Day Tour
Set on a 34-hectare former quarry an hour’s drive from Manila, the GK Enchanted Farm Village allows tourists to take part in an authentic Filipino farm community that looks to do a greater social good. Farm activities are designed to instill an appreciation for the fruits of the land, the lives of the less well-off, and the spirit of entrepreneurship, all expressed through the farm’s attached community and cottage industries, all open for the visitor to explore. gk1world.com.
1.3. Community-based Eco-Tourism in Coron Island, Palawan/Donsol, Sorsogon
The Philippines leads the way in sustainable, community-based eco-tourism, thanks to localities like Coron Island off Palawan and Donsol in Sorsogon Province. Coron offers a series of nature-based adventures, ranging from scuba diving to countryside hiking, all done in close coordination with local community tourism offices. Donsol highlights two unique natural experiences – the whale shark encounter and firefly-watching – both of which support local livelihoods and subsidize environmental protection efforts.
