The Eastern Mindanao Biodiversity Corridor (EMBC) played a crucial role at the 32nd Philippine Biodiversity Symposium by the Biodiversity Conservation Society of the Philippines held from August 12 to 15, 2025 at the Central Philippine University, Iloilo City. The event brought together various experts and advocates to share critical research on the urgent need to conserve the Philippines’ unique wildlife and ecosystems.
Represented by the EMBC Project Management Unit (PMU), in collaboration with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)- Caraga Region and Caraga State University (CSU), the team presented key studies on biodiversity within the corridor. These studies, showcased through posters, focused on various species and ecosystems that make the EMBC an essential conservation area. The research covered various subjects such as:
- Distribution Patterns and Conservation Notes on Begonia (Begoniaceae) in the EMBC;
- Herpetofaunal Diversity of the Eastern Mindanao Biodiversity Corridor;
- Wings of the Forest: Avifaunal Diversity across the Lowland Forests of the EMBC; and
- Bat Species Assemblages and Distribution in EMBC
EMBC’s biodiversity studies in the form of an infographic presented at the symposium
The findings brought out the EMBC’s critical role in protecting rare and irreplaceable flora and fauna species. By sharing these insights, the team sought to inspire greater support for conservation efforts, resonating with the symposium’s theme, “One Future: Biodiversity, Climate, and Health.”
Key Points
A major highlight of the symposium was the updating of the Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs) in the Philippines and the launch of the Philippine Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan. These sessions provided the EMBC team with new perspectives and practical ideas to enhance current and future conservation projects.
The team also participated in various breakout sessions and workshops, where discussions focused on challenges like habitat loss, climate change, and the need for stronger community involvement. These sessions stressed the significance of integrating research into local policy and planning efforts.
Steps Moving Forward
The DENR of Region XI and Caraga, together with the EMBC-PMU and other partners are committed to applying the lessons learned from the symposium to advance their conservation goals which include:
- Strengthening conservation education and outreach within EMBC communities
- Enhancing partnerships with academic institutions for continued biodiversity research
- Aligning local biodiversity actions with the newly updated national biodiversity strategy
- Developing a science-based conservation plan for the corridor’s clusters
- Advocating for policy support to protect threatened species and habitats
By bridging the gap between scientific research, community engagement, and policy advocacy, the EMBC-PMU and their partners reaffirm their roles as leaders in both conservation and education.
A Shared Responsibility
Biodiversity protection should not fall on the hands of one, but by the hands of many. It is not a problem that can be solved only by scientists or even technical experts.
“Our forests, rivers, and wildlife connect us all. If we care for them today, they will care for us tomorrow,” one CSU researcher from the EMBC PMU highlighted in relation to the broad importance of biodiversity conservation.
The participation of the DENR-UNDP/GEF Project on Integrated Management of Major Biodiversity Corridors in the Philippines or BD Corridor Project, particularly the EMBC-PMU, in the symposium further emphasized its significance not only as a research hub but also as living proof to the collective responsibility of all Filipinos to protect the country’s natural heritage for future generations.
The Integrated Approach in the Management of Major Biodiversity Corridors in the Philippines, or DENR-UNDP/GEF BD Corridor Project seeks to operationalize integrated management of biodiversity corridors to generate multiple benefits, including effective conservation of globally threatened species and high conservation value forests, reduce deforestation and degradation, enhance local biodiversity-friendly livelihoods. The project is implemented by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme and funded by the Global Environment Facility. 🦇🍃
