Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
The Ditumabo Protected Landscape and Seascape is located in the province of Samar in the Eastern Visayas region of the Philippines. It covers a combination of terrestrial and marine environments, including lowland dipterocarp forests, freshwater rivers, mangroves, and coral reefs. The area is a critical habitat for endemic and endangered species such as the Philippine eagle, various raptors, and diverse marine life. Established to conserve both the ecological integrity of its landscape and the surrounding seascape, Ditumabo supports a range of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems that provide invaluable ecosystem services including watershed protection and coastal fisheries sustainability. Key geographic features include the Ditumabo River, which runs through old-growth forest before reaching the sea, and extensive mangrove forests along the coast that stabilize shorelines against erosion. Visitors are attracted by opportunities for hiking through tropical forests, birdwatching, freshwater swimming, kayaking on shaded rivers, snorkeling along coral reefs, and exploring traditional fishing villages that reflect local culture. The area also serves as an important site for environmental education and community-driven conservation efforts. Its combination of dense forest cover, vibrant underwater habitats, and peaceful riverside trails make it a unique destination for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers seeking both terrestrial and marine experiences in a relatively untouched setting.
