Alexis T. Fajardo, Forest Technician II
As part of the University of the Philippines Los Baños’ (UPLB) education tourism initiatives, the Makiling Center for Mountain Ecosystems (MCME) through the Makiling Botanic Gardens (MBG) welcomed a delegation of local government officials and tourism stakeholders from the Municipality of Makilala, North Cotabato on 12 August 2025.
The visiting group included the Municipal Planning and Development Coordinator (MPDC), Municipal Engineer, Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Officer (MENRO), Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officer (MDRRMO), Designate Tourism Officer, Municipal Budget Officer, Municipal Accounting Officer, and Provincial Investment Adviser.
To maximize the learning exchange, Dr. Lerma SJ. Maldia, Director of MCME, together with Foresters Angela A. Limpiada and Alexis John T. Fajardo, assisted in crafting the group’s itinerary and facilitated knowledge-sharing sessions with the Makilala Municipal Tourism Office. Discussions highlighted strategies for integrating community engagement in natural resources conservation.
The delegation also toured MBG’s themed gardens, guided by Foresters Limpiada and Fajardo, who showcased the site’s biodiversity and sustainable tourism practices.
Through this cross-visit, the Makilala officials gained firsthand exposure to proven models of geothermal tourism development, particularly in infrastructure management, sustainability initiatives, and community participation. The activity served as a benchmarking opportunity that not only promoted knowledge and experience sharing but also strengthened partnerships between the Makilala LGU and UPLB’s Makiling Botanic Gardens.
Such collaboration is expected to pave the way for joint efforts in advancing sustainable tourism development and environmental stewardship.
Photos by: AJTFajardo
