The Department of Tourism (DOT) has partnered with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to promote birdwatching activities in the Ilocos Region, focusing not just on leisure, but also on conservation, awareness, and sustainable livelihood.
From April 4 to 9, about 30 professional and amateur birders, photographers, and enthusiasts participated in the first birdwatching caravan in the Ilocos Region, documenting various avian species in their natural habitats.
Gaye Acacio, Chief Tourism Operations Officer of DOT Region 1 (Ilocos), highlighted the Kalbario-Patapat Natural Park in Ilocos Norte as one of the most celebrated birding destinations. A protected area under Republic Act 11038, it is known for its relatively intact ecosystems and is recognized as a key biodiversity area, an important bird area, and part of the East-Asia-Pacific flyway for migratory birds.
“The Kalbario-Patapat Natural Park in Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte is home to majestic species like the hornbill and grey-faced buzzard, as well as other raptors that pass through during migratory seasons. These sightings serve as symbols of our deep connection to the natural rhythms of the earth,” Acacio said. She praised the growing community of bird enthusiasts, both local and international, for their dedication to birding and their role in putting the region on the international birding map.
Michael Calaramo, acting director of the Ecosystem Management and Development Office Ecotourism Park and Botanic Garden of Northwestern University, also expressed commitment to expanding partnerships with the DOT and DENR. One of their initiatives includes hosting international symposiums for birds.
The Paoay Lake Natural Park, another birding destination, serves as a sanctuary for several bird species, including Little Grebe, Great Egret, Philippine Duck, and Tufted Duck, according to the annual Asian Waterbird Census.
Birders at Kalbario-Patapat Natural Park have reported sightings of at least 18 bird species, with endemic species such as the Rufous Hornbill, Philippine Forest Kingfisher, and Philippine Hawk Eagle. Among the introduced species observed are the Zebra Dove and Crested Myna.
The DENR notes that the Philippines is home to 117 Important Bird Areas (IBAs) covering over 32,000 square kilometers, providing refuge to 115 globally threatened species of waterbirds. Peak migration for birds traveling south occurs from September to November, while those heading north typically migrate between February and April.
