Local government units surrounding Mt. Apo Natural Park are intensifying efforts to gain its recognition as a UNESCO Global Geopark. Having already met most of the requirements, they are now awaiting feedback from UNESCO, hopeful that Mt. Apo will soon become part of a select group of internationally recognized geoparks. If successful, it would be the second geopark in the Philippines, following Bohol Island, further enhancing Mt. Apo’s status as a significant natural and cultural landmark.
This initiative underscores the mountain’s unique geological and ecological features, including its boulder face, sulfur vents, lakes, and craters, as well as its rich biodiversity, which includes the critically endangered Philippine Eagle. Mt. Apo is already protected under the National Integrated Protected Areas System (NIPAS) and recognized as an ASEAN Heritage Park. However, the Global Geopark designation would bring additional international attention and support for conservation efforts.
For local leaders and advocates, this endeavor is not merely about prestige. It is about ensuring Mt. Apo’s legacy for future generations, allowing climbers, researchers, and cultural communities to inherit a mountain that remains vibrant and resilient. Achieving this recognition would strengthen sustainable tourism, foster community pride, and promote ecological stewardship, positioning Mt. Apo as a global model for balancing development with preservation.