UPV boosts Antique bird-watching ecotourism

By Carlson Alelis

The University of the Philippines Visayas, represented by Chancellor Clement Camposano, signed a multi-party memorandum of agreement in May 2026 to establish a bird-watching area in the Aningalan Experimental Forest in San Remigio, Antique.

UPV signed the agreement with the Antique provincial government, the San Remigio municipal government, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the University of Antique, Haribon Foundation for the Conservation of Natural Resources Inc., Hayahay sa Ambon Inc., and the DENR Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau.

The 101-hectare Aningalan Experimental Forest is recognized as a biodiversity-rich forest area that provides habitat for endemic and migratory bird species while supporting the ecological, cultural, and socioeconomic needs of nearby communities.

The area is home to bird species such as the endangered yellow-faced flameback, Visayan balicassiao, Visayan fantail, Visayan tailorbird, white-bellied woodpecker, and elegant tit, according to the Philippine News Agency.

Under the agreement, the parties will establish, develop, and sustain a bird-watching area within the Aningalan Experimental Forest in line with biodiversity conservation, sustainable ecotourism, and local development goals.

UPV will conduct baseline studies and surveys on avifauna, flora, and habitat conditions in Aningalan to generate scientific data for establishing and managing the bird-watching area.

UPV will also identify bird species, including threatened, endemic, and migratory species, and develop species profiles to support conservation and ecotourism initiatives.

The university will provide technical guidance, conduct training, and collaborate with various sectors on environmental conservation practices, management, and awareness programs. (UPV-IPO)