Congratulations to the people of Bohol Province for the designation of Bohol Island Geopark as the first UNESCO Global Geopark in the Philippines!
Unlike other UNESCO designations and inscription, the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network requires aspiring geoparks to already perform the functions of a geopark at least a year prior to submitting its application. To echo Kirstof Vanderberghe from UNESCO, aspiring geoparks already work very clearly with local communities, schools, and tourism agencies. They have a clear branding featuring the geology and connecting that geology with the natural and cultural heritage of the area. They have a sound management body, including local communities, with a budget for the coming years, a visitor centre to receive visitors, and a good inventory of all the important geosites.
With this designation, it made the geological heritage of Bohol Island accessible to residents, tourists, and visitors that also include lifelong learners, scientists and experts, as well as advocates of sustainable development.
Truly, we are into more exciting times ahead and rest assured the UNESCO-Philippine National Commission will not only be cheering for Bohol Island but will continue to work as a partner for the sustainable management of the country’s first UNESCO Global Geopark.
