kaban galing - front cover - galing pook

agro-industrial province”. This program was to become one side of a
two-pronged strategy for the Poverty Reduction Action Plan that followed
on the heels of the ecotourism program.
Many ecotourism projects were planned, designed and implemented.
These ecotourism projects, taken together, have brought the total
environment of Bohol to pristine condition. Many of these projects are
offshoots of the tourism program which has made Bohol a favorite tourist
destination. The projects have also provided alternative livelihood and
additional income to countless families. New forms of job opportunities
have been created. Male members are employed not only as fishermen
but as boat crew or paddlers. Female members are employed as guides
or cooks. Native food and crafts have become brisk business.
Some profitable ventures that demonstrate the best practices in
natural resource management are described below:
The Basido Marine Sanctuary in the municipality of Guindulma
attracts snorkelers from all over the world because of its clean, clear
waters that contain rich corals and a variety of fish species. The
establishment of the sanctuary raised awareness on rehabilitation,
preservation and management of the marine ecosystem. The sanctuary
has increased the biodiversity in the area, contributed to the livelihood
of fishermen and boosted the ecotourism opportunities in the area. The
community now operates a snorkeling and paddling business. Following
the example of the Basido Marine Sanctuary, other barangays have also
set up their own.
The waters of Pamilacan Island is a migratory route where whales,
dolphins, sharks and other fish frolic. At first the Boholanos were unaware
of the large number of marine mammals in their waters until American
and Japanese whalers were taking them purportedly for research. The
locals picked up the whaling technique and soon a whaling community
emerged. From these came local whale hunters, but with the program,
they were transformed into tour guides, spotters and boat operators for
the now famous dolphin watch tours.
Mangrove reforestation projects are also undertaken is a large scale
they represent the biggesrt such effort in Asia. Aside from wood
harvested from adult trees, there are fish, blue crabs and shells. Tree
planting is also being promoted for watershed management and as a
deterrent to soil erosion in coastal areas. Fisherfolk and villagers also
train for coastal management and oyster culture.
An Enchanting Journey to Success 73