UNACOM and Davao Oriental State University (DOrSU)—the higher educational institution in the Province of Davao Oriental—collaborated for the adoption and implementation of the project, “UNESCO World Heritage Outstanding Universal Value Awareness and Support to Campsites and Trail Reopening of the Mt. Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary” from June 2024 to January 2025.
This includes the development of a new campsite, maintenance of old trails and campsites, development of informational materials about the Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) of MHRWS, and the promotion of UNESCO World Heritage site programmes to local communities. DOrSU commits to making significant contributions in the efforts to safeguard and conserve MHRWS as a World Heritage site through its main functions of research, instruction, and extension.
With the Regenerative Futures framework in view of such commitment, DOrSU has established its Research and Development Center for MHRWS in partnership with the Protected Area Management Board to conduct focused research and extension activities towards the conservation of the protected area; facilitate ecological restoration and biodiversity regeneration; document, identify, and assess biological and ecological characteristics; and create national databases and publications concerning MHRWS.
The following were completed in March:
• UNESCO World Heritage Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials for Mt. Hamiguitan and Pujada Bay;
• Production and installation of UNESCO signages and QR information system of Mt. Hamiguitan features and flora species; and
• Campsite enhancements for the trail reopening (ie. campsite and trail repairs; water collection; and installation of portable toilet, solar lights, and charging stations).
Lastly, in support of the site’s reopening, the project facilitated campsite enhancement and trail rehabilitation. Eroded trail segments were stabilized, stone steps were installed, debris was cleared, and drainage solutions were integrated along the Bika-Bika trail. Campsite infrastructure was also improved with the construction of new camp halls at Camps 3, 4, and 5, alongside the installation of essential amenities including kitchens, toilets, and water systems.
Monitoring climbs and validation visits were conducted, with the project receiving validation from UNACOM and COA in March.