Mt. Apo National Park is once again aiming for global recognition as a UNESCO Global Geopark, with DENR-Davao expressing confidence in the ongoing bid. After being removed from UNESCO’s tentative World Heritage list in 2015 due to environmental issues such as illegal logging and poaching, the park has spent the past two years strengthening its conservation programs and preparing for an evaluation. This August, during the Kadayawan Festival, evaluators from France and China are expected to visit and assess not only Mt. Apo’s geological features but also the involvement of Indigenous communities in its protection and management.
Local governments have shown strong support, with Davao City passing an ordinance declaring Mt. Apo a geological monument, and Sta. Cruz highlights its iconic boulder face as part of the mountain’s heritage. If successful, Mt. Apo will become the second UNESCO Global Geopark in the Philippines after Bohol. This recognition would bring pride to Dabawenyos and reinforce the importance of safeguarding the mountain’s rich biodiversity and cultural significance for future generations.