Philippine bid advances: Sablayan pushes UNESCO biosphere reserve designation at Paraguay session

The application to declare Sablayan as a biosphere reserve is being advanced at the 38th Session of the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Programme in Paraguay. A Philippine delegation, together with UNESCO representatives and Sablayan Mayor Bong B. Marquez, took part in deliberations joined by delegates from around 100 countries. The proposal highlights Sablayan’s rich terrestrial and marine ecosystems, including forests, mountains, and coastal waters that host diverse endemic species. Officials said the designation would support stronger conservation measures while advancing sustainable development and safeguarding the livelihoods of local communities.

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