Bohol has been named a UNESCO Global Geopark, according to a statement from Bohol First District Congressman Edgar M. Chatto.
This designation marks an important step towards the realization of Bohol’s shared dream of becoming a prime eco-cultural tourism destination, Chatto said.
As a UNESCO Global Geopark, Bohol now stands with other geoparks around the world and with UNESCO as a tourism destination and an environment and geologically protected area. It is the first and only one in the country, the Boholano lawmaker said.
The journey to this achievement began in 2013 when Dr. Mario Delos Reyes of the University of the Philippines School of Urban and Regional Planning (UP SURP) and Dr. Gero Hilmer of the University of Hamburg selected Bohol as the most suitable location to become a Global Geopark, recalled Chatto, also governor of Bohol from 2010 to 2019.
Congressman Chatto expressed gratitude to UNESCO and the Global Geoparks Network for their guidance and support in achieving this recognition.
He also acknowledged the collaborative work of the Provincial Government offices and partners dedicated to preserving Bohol’s geological heritage.
“With this designation, Bohol takes pride in its beauty and wonder and takes on the challenge of preserving it for future growth and development,” Chatto said.