Ilocos Norte: The Department of Tourism (DOT) has teamed up with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to promote more birdwatching activities in the region not just for leisure but for conservation, awareness, and sustainable livelihood.

According to Philippines News Agency, about 30 professional and amateur birders, photographers, and enthusiasts took part in the first birdwatching caravan held in the Ilocos Region from April 4 to 9, which documented several avian species in their natural habitat. Gaye Acacio, chief tourism operations officer of the DOT Region 1 (Ilocos), highlighted the Kalbario-Patapat Natural Park as one of the most celebrated birding destinations. The park is a protected area in Ilocos Norte under Republic Act 11038 and is identified as a key biodiversity area and part of the East-Asia-Pacific flyway of migratory birds.

Acacio noted that the Kalbario-Patapat Natural Park in Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte, is home to the majestic hornbill, grey-faced buzzard, and other raptors that pass through during the migratory season. She emphasized that these sightings symbolize the deep connection between humans and the natural rhythms of the earth. Acacio also praised the growing community of bird enthusiasts for spotlighting the region on the international birding map.

Michael Calaramo, a bird expert and acting director of the Ecosystem Management and Development Office Ecotourism Park and Botanic Garden of Northwestern University, expressed commitment to building more partnerships with the DOT and DENR, including hosting international symposiums for birds. According to the annual Asian Waterbird Census, the Paoay Lake Natural Park provides shelter to bird species like Little Grebe, Great Egret, and Philippine Duck, among others.

Birders visiting the Kalbario-Patapat Natural Park have reported at least 18 bird species, including endemic species such as the Common Emerald Dove and Rufous Hornbill. The DENR states that the Philippines has 117 Important Bird Areas covering 32,302 square km, serving as refuges for 115 globally threatened species of water birds. In the Philippines, the peak months for bird migration to the south are typically from September to November, while migration north occurs between February and April.