Coron’s Underwater Eco-park Issue: A Call to Action for Responsible Tourism Practices.
The Coron Underwater Eco-park in Palawan has been making headlines lately, with many people eager to visit this new tourist attraction. However, the initial report about the park’s development was incorrect, and apparently, the local government unit of Coron, Palawan, did not approve the project.
In a clarification statement released on April 3, 2023, the LGU-Coron stated that the project was put up without their coordination and that the proponent has not yet secured the required documentation from their end. This means the park may violate local, provincial, or national environmental laws.
It’s important to note that the Coron Underwater Eco-park is located inside the Pukayaw Cave, a natural wonder developed as an eco-park offering various activities for guests to enjoy. While the idea of a park inside a cave may seem exciting and unique, such projects must be developed with proper planning and approval from the relevant authorities.
Tourism is a vital industry for the Philippines, and the country has many beautiful natural wonders that attract tourists worldwide. However, it’s essential to ensure that tourism development is sustainable and does not harm the environment or the local communities.
Ecotourism is an excellent way to promote tourism while preserving the environment and supporting local communities. Ecotourism is defined as “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the welfare of local people.” Ecotourism activities are designed to minimize environmental impact while providing tourists with a unique and authentic experience.
Developing an eco-park inside a natural wonder like the Pukayaw Cave has the potential to promote ecotourism in Coron, Palawan. However, it’s essential to ensure that the development is done in a way that does not harm the cave’s natural beauty and ecosystem. This requires careful planning, consultation with relevant authorities and stakeholders, and compliance with environmental laws and regulations.
Unfortunately, the development of the Coron Underwater Eco-park did not follow these essential steps, and the project may violate environmental laws. The project proponent must work closely with the LGU-Coron, DENR, and PCSD to address any violations and ensure that the development is done sustainably and responsibly.
In conclusion, the Coron Underwater Eco-park is a unique and exciting project that has the potential to promote ecotourism in Coron, Palawan. However, such developments must be done sustainably and responsibly, with proper planning and approval from relevant authorities. The LGU-Coron’s clarification statement shows that there may have been some issues with the development of the Coron Underwater Eco-park, and it’s vital that any violations are addressed promptly. By promoting responsible tourism, we can ensure that our natural wonders are preserved for future generations.
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