December 21, 2023
In a monumental collaboration, Recreational Outdoor eXchange (ROX) Philippines and ABS-CBN Foundation Inc. (AFI) joined forces to provide Basic Mountaineering Courses and Wilderness First Aid Training to partner communities in Samar and Leyte. This transformative initiative is part of the Foundation's ongoing efforts within the 'Passport Project,' which seeks to prepare and promote ecotourism sites operated by these communities.
The three-day training, held from December 5 to 7 at Lanawan Nature Farm and spearheaded by Emmanuel Batungbacal, ROX Outdoor Consultant, featured engaging discussions on camp management, equipment care and maintenance, and the intricate details of tents and backpacks. Accompanied by Brikko Iyanev Dumas and Glenn Marvin Mallari, ROX facilitated a comprehensive learning experience.
The program extended beyond mountaineering essentials, incorporating the fundamentals of Wilderness First Aid. Dr. Roy Albert Resurrection, representing the ROX Outdoor team, underscored the importance of self-preservation for tour guides navigating hazardous terrains. Dr. Resurrection emphasized, "By prioritizing our safety, we can earn the trust of our guests and provide effective assistance to those who may require medical attention."
Expressing gratitude, Marlyn M. Quebec, Paranas Ecotrail and Birding Site Representative, shared, "We are grateful to ROX and ABS-CBN Foundation for designing this training that not only includes discussion but also hands-on experience in setting up tents and applying basic first aid. This approach made it easier for me to understand and remember the lessons for a long period."
As ABS-CBN Foundation and ROX Philippines reach new peaks of empowerment, they envision this collaboration as just the beginning of more extensive capacity development efforts. Partnerships like these reaffirm the commitment of Earth Warriors in Samar, Leyte, and across the Philippines to responsible and sustainable tourism, ensuring a brighter future for these regions.
All Photos Credit to ABS-CBN Foundation Inc.