The Mt. Apo Natural Park Cotabato – Protected Area Management Office (MANP PAMO) embarked on a series of extensive trail assessments as part of its Carrying Capacity study from April 14-21 and May 12-23, 2024.
The MANP Cotabato Monitoring team evaluated the four official trekking trails within the park: the Bongolanon trail in Magpet, the Mandangan trail in Kidapawan City, the New Israel trail in Makilala, and the VIP trail in the Energy Development Corporation area. The comprehensive assessment involved thorough inspections of camping sites, resting stations, and existing facilities along the trails.
Deputy Protected Area Superintendent (PASu) Forester Mary Eve B. Nachon stressed that the team conducted rigorous data collection to ensure accurate results, ultimately enabling sustainable conservation efforts while providing responsible public access to the area. “This trail assessment is a vital component in computing the carrying capacity of MANP Cotabato,” said Deputy PASu Nachon.
This crucial endeavor aims to determine the optimal visitor capacity for the park, ensuring a delicate balance between public access and environmental preservation. In addition to the physical assessment, the study also involved a complete inventory of existing facilities and questionnaire interviews with farmers, local residents, visitors, and establishment owners. This comprehensive approach underscores the commitment to the responsible and effective management of the MANP.
