Driven by a passion to inspire future generations to cherish the Philippines’ natural beauty, the Department of Tourism (DOT) launched a series of murals that celebrate the country’s breathtaking tourist destinations and rich biodiversity.
From July to October 2024, DOT regional offices hosted “Love Inspired: The Philippines, a Canvas of Biodiversity” in 16 prime tourist spots. Known as Love Biodiversity Day 2024, these events showcased murals created by local artists and activities aimed at raising environmental awareness among tourism stakeholders and communities.
Boracay: A Masterpiece of Marine Life and Iconic Spots
Boracay, a globally renowned beach and diving destination, participated with a mural crafted by Lito Panganiban and Japs Avelino of Island Artists Boracay. The artwork depicted iconic attractions such as the sandcastles, Boracay Keyhole, Willy’s Rock, and paraw sailboats, alongside the island’s marine residents like sea turtles and clownfish.
“This vibrant mural showcases the region’s lush flora and fauna, majestic landscapes, and vital marine environments,” said DOT Region 6.
Beyond its natural allure, Boracay boasts rich biodiversity, including native tree species like Narra and Balakat, 344 bird species, and a diverse array of reptiles, bats, and marine life.
Clark, Pampanga: Honoring Regional Biodiversity
In Pampanga, the emerging tourism hub of Clark revealed a mural created by Placid Studio artists. This piece highlighted the region’s unique biodiversity, featuring the pawikan (sea turtles) of Bataan, mole crickets of Pampanga, and Mount Pinatubo, along with nods to the Aeta community and Aurora’s waterfalls.
Tacloban City: A Tribute to Resilience and Nature
Tacloban City, which endured devastation during Super Typhoon Yolanda, hosted a mural along Magsaysay Boulevard, overlooking Cancanato Bay. Created by local artists Kim Clinton Gonzales and Andrew Abainza, it depicted protected landscapes such as Biri Larosa and San Juanico Bridge. DOT Assistant Secretary Gissela Marie Quisumbing called it “a visual road trip to Eastern Visayas.”
Mindanao: Showcasing Mt. Hamiguitan and Lake Sebu
In Mindanao, Davao and SOCCSKSARGEN regions celebrated their rich biodiversity with two significant murals.
- Davao Region: The 18-meter mural at Mt. Hamiguitan Natural Science Museum depicted its panoramic landscapes and the Philippine eagle, underscoring conservation efforts.
- SOCCSKSARGEN: A 50-meter mural along Surallah-Lake Sebu Road illustrated South Cotabato’s biodiversity, including Lake Sebu, highlighting the importance of environmental preservation.
Nationwide Initiatives and Sustainable Tourism
Several DOT regional offices complemented the mural unveilings with activities like coastal cleanups and tree-planting initiatives. In Zamboanga del Norte, participants cleaned Dipolog City Boulevard, while in La Union and Iligan City, over 200 mangrove seedlings were planted to protect biodiversity and combat climate change.
In Batanes, guests learned to weave hats from coconut leaves during the mural unveiling, blending cultural preservation with sustainable practices.
Other mural locations included Anilao, Batangas; Catanduanes; Baguio City; Dumaguete City; Agusan del Sur; and Arroceros Park in Manila, known as the “last lung” of the capital.
DOT’s Call for Conservation
DOT Assistant Secretary Quisumbing emphasized the significance of these initiatives, stating that the murals represent a collective commitment to preserving the environment.
“By adopting sustainable lifestyles and supporting conservation efforts, we can foster positive change together,” she urged, highlighting the potential to redefine tourism as a force for good.
The murals and events under Love Biodiversity Day 2024 underscore the vital connection between tourism and sustainability, ensuring the Philippines’ natural wonders are cherished for generations to come.
