The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) regional offices in Davao (DENR-11) and Soccsksargen (DENR-12) have formalized collaboration to advance the UNESCO Global Geopark (UGGP) application for Mt. Apo Natural Park (MANP). Covering 64,000 hectares across three cities, four municipalities, and 44 villages, MANP is a protected area under RA 9237, listed as a UN National Park, and recognized as an ASEAN Heritage Site.
As a key biodiversity area, Mt. Apo hosts 272 bird species, including the critically endangered Philippine eagle, underscoring its ecological significance. Both DENR offices outlined unified management strategies, presented updates on the planned UNESCO Base Camp launch in July, and introduced a memorandum of agreement establishing regular coordination meetings, a joint technical working committee, and mechanisms for resource mobilization.