The first ever national eco-tourism festival was officially opened on February 25-26, 2013 at Brgy. Luga, Sta. Teresita, Cagayan. The theme for this grand affair was, “Gameng Ti Nakaparsuaan: Takuaten Ken Salupan (Gifts of Nature: Discover and Protect).” This was participated in by various municipal local government units, government agencies, and foreign and local outdoor recreation clubs.

“The activity aims to promote environmental awareness and protection within the community. The real success of this event showed the convergence of efforts among the tourism offices, LGUs, and line agencies,” said Sta. Teresita Mayor Lolita C. Garcia. She averred that the festival was planned six months ago to showcase the eco-tourism potential of the municipality, especially the introduction of Sta. Teresita as part of the caving capital in the Philippines and the Vannamei (a shrimp variety) Capital of the North.

Among the beautiful caves located in the town include the: Tabaco Cave, Bangalau Cave, Karkarato Cave, Maquera Cave, Marciano Cave, and Mount Cagua. Mountaineers from several local and international private clubs participated in the caving activity and hikers of Mount Cagua were expected to be back at the base camp (luga National High School) after three days. The mountain climbing activity kicked off after the opening of the celebration. Other participants and guests joined river sports activities and different fun games at the camp.

Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Central Office Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau Assistant Director Nelson P. Devanadera graced the event and served as one of the Key Resource Speakers. He lectured on eco-tourism development and shared the experiences of Puerto Princesa particularly on the tourism development of El Nido, Palawan and the Puerto Princesa Underground River.

“Bio-diversity should not only be viewed in the context of environment but also on population too. Eco-tourism activities is attained through the promotion of one’s own culture and history, it exhibits the earlier life of the place and are just being documented for the others to learn,” said Director Devanadera.

He said that strong LGU support is necessary and everyone must follow and participate. “Everyone must be ready in terms of skills and capabilities, and establish a culture of standards in eco-tourism management. While social implications can be experienced throughout the development, let us not be afraid but rather improve on our priority setting. Good convergence and relationship must be on the ground,” he added.

Meanwhile, DOT RD Diwa challenged the community to sustain and give all the necessary support to the initiatives of the officials stressing the cleanliness of the community and fair-pricing in the market as among the established culture for tourism development.

She also challenged everyone to learn the ‘story’ and visit the wonders and nature of their own town to effectively inform and encourage local and foreign tourists to come in their community.

The event proceeded until March 2, 2013 with the conduct of various eco-tourism activities and fun games for the participants and guests.