Eco-Travel: Bicol

Protected Areas

Bicol is home to protected areas like Mayon Volcano Natural Park and Bulusan Volcano Natural Park. Adhere to all park rules, stay on marked trails, and do not disturb wildlife.

Waste & Recycling

Waste management and recycling infrastructure are limited, especially outside major cities. Minimize plastic use. Use a reusable water bottle and bring a reusable shopping bag. Dispose of trash properly in designated bins. Do not litter.

Water Use

Water resources, specifically on islands and during the dry season, can be strained. Be mindful of your water consumption. Take shorter showers and reuse towels to conserve this precious resource.

Environmental Practices

Make choices that support environmental protection.

Carbon Footprint

Consider offsetting the carbon emissions from your travel.

Offset Your Travel

Offset emissions from flights.
Use reputable carbon offset programs.
Support initiatives that absorb carbon. Support carbon offsets with Terrapass.
A step towards greener travel.

Green Stays & Tours

Prioritize accommodations and tour operators committed to environmental protection.

Sustainable Choices

Look for proper waste disposal and energy efficiency.
Inquire about their sustainability practices.
Seek out responsible tourism certifications. Find eco-friendly accommodations at Ecobnb.
Choose businesses that support local sourcing.

Ethical Tours

Choose tour operators with a focus on local benefit and sustainable travel.

Sustainable Adventures

Consider ethical tour operators who support local communities.
Look for operators with strong sustainable travel policies.
Small group tours often offer more immersive and responsible experiences. Find ethical tours with G Adventures.
Operators that prioritize environmental conservation.

Sustainable Brands

Support brands that advocate for environmental responsibility and offer eco-friendly products.

Conscious Consumption

For outdoor gear, look for brands like Patagonia.
Reduce waste with reusable products from Package Free Shop.
These choices contribute to a more sustainable planet.
Support companies with strong environmental missions.

Community-Based Initiatives

Local Guides

Engage with local guides for whale shark tours or homestays. This directly benefits community members.

Find local experiences

Fair Trade Shopping

Purchase souvenirs and products directly from local artisans, markets, or fair-trade shops for ethical sourcing.

Support ethical products

Travel Lightly

Your choices preserve Bicol's beauty for future generations. Embrace responsible travel practices throughout your journey.

Cultural Sensitivity

Engage with Bicol’s culture respectfully.

Preserve Culture

Support local traditions and heritage.

Cultural Initiatives

Support local craftspeople and cultural initiatives.
Learn about local traditions and history before your visit.
This deepens your appreciation for the region.
Embrace the unique local heritage.

Interact Mindfully

Polite and patient engagement with locals.

Respectful Conduct

Be polite and patient in all interactions.
Use "po" and "opo" in Tagalog or Bicolano.
Engage respectfully with locals, especially in rural communities.
Filipinos value smooth interpersonal relations ("pakikisama").

Photo Ethics

Seek permission for photos before snapping.

Photography Guidelines

Always ask for permission before taking photos of individuals.
Be especially mindful when photographing children.
Be sensitive and discreet in religious or private settings.
Avoid intrusive photography, respecting personal space.

Sacred Spaces

Show reverence at religious sites.

Religious Site Etiquette

Dress modestly, ensuring shoulders and knees are covered.
Remove shoes if required before entering.
Maintain silence and respect during religious services or prayers.
Observe local customs for worship.

Community-Based Tours

Choose tour operators with a focus on local benefit. The whale shark interaction program in Donsol is globally recognized for its ethical and conservation-focused approach; follow all guidelines from the Butanding Interaction Officers (BIOs) to protect these magnificent creatures.

G Adventures

Ethical tour operator supporting local communities and sustainable travel practices. Find ethical tours with G Adventures.

Fair Trade

Fair trade policies ensure profits return to local producers and artisans.

Responsible Travel

Small group tours for immersive, responsible experiences. Support local economies directly.

Cultural Exchange

Openness and politeness foster positive interactions and a connection with the local culture and people of Bicol.

Economic Impact

Support local economies through your travel choices.

Local Ventures

Seek out and support tours and activities that directly benefit local communities.

Community Support

Engage local guides for whale shark tours.
Consider homestays for a cultural exchange and local spending.
Participate in community-led experiences.
Your spending contributes directly to local prosperity.

Ethical Shopping

Purchase souvenirs and products directly from local artisans, markets, or fair-trade shops.

Conscious Purchases

Buy directly from artisans to ensure profits return to producers.
Look for fair-trade certifications where available.
Bargain respectfully where customary.
Every purchase supports local livelihoods.

Local Support

Your choices in dining and transport contribute directly to local entrepreneurs and workers.

Dining Choices

Dine at local "carinderias" (small eateries).
Try authentic local cuisine.
Directly circulate money within the community.

Transportation & Shopping

Use local transportation like jeepneys and tricycles.
Buy from small, independent shops instead of large chains.
Every peso spent locally makes a difference.

Ethical Choices

Avoid activities that exploit animals or people.

Avoid Harmful Practices

Do not engage in activities that exploit animals, like riding on whale sharks.
Avoid illegal wildlife trade.
Do not encourage begging, especially by children.
Report any unethical behavior observed.

Responsible Giving

If you wish to donate, do so through established, reputable local charities or NGOs.

Donate Effectively

Donating through organizations is more effective.
It avoids perpetuating begging cycles.
Support conservation efforts, like those at The Rainforest Site.
Your contributions go to those most in need.

Warning

Unethical Practices

Be aware of and avoid any tour operators or activities that disregard ethical guidelines regarding wildlife or local communities.

Child Begging

Directly giving money to children can perpetuate cycles of begging. Support community programs instead.

Thoughtful Spending

Your spending directly impacts Bicolano communities. Conscious choices leave a positive footprint on the local economy and culture.

Eco-Travel