LUNA, Apayao – For the first time since its designation as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the province of Apayao is laying the foundation for a dedicated research center to serve as the hub for conservation studies, biodiversity monitoring, and sustainable development.
The ground-breaking ceremony for the Biosphere Reserve of the yApayaos (BRyA) Research Center took place on March 7, 2025, in Eva Garden, Calanasan, led by Governor Elias C. Bulut, Jr., Congresswoman Eleanor C. Bulut-Begtang, and UNESCO National Commission of the Philippines (UNACOM) Secretary General Dr. Ivan Henares.
The PhP10-million worth facility sets the beginning of a larger vision for BRyA, with plans for more conservation-focused infrastructure in the future. As the first of its kind in the province, the center will play an important role in gathering data, guiding policies, and to make sure that conservation efforts are grounded in science and local knowledge. It is envisioned to connect researchers, government agencies, and the indigenous communities in shaping strategies that balance environmental protection and development.
Governor Bulut said that Apayao’s recognition as a biosphere reserve should come with action, and the establishment of a research center is one of the first real steps toward making sure that its forests, rivers, and wildlife are preserved with informed decision-making. “This center is just the start. We need a facility like this, tapno adda iti pagyanan dagiti researchers tayo, and the scientists,” he said.
“Dati agam-agam lang ito, ngayon unti-unti nang nangyayari. It is very symbolic na dito yung research center kasi dito rin nakita yung pinakaunang nest ng Philippine Eagle sa Luzon,” he added.
Meanwhile, Dr. Henares said that the research center is a gateway for scientific discovery in Apayao, and will play a big role in uncovering the province’s ecological wealth. “Ang research center na ito ay napaka-importante kasi parating na po ang mga scientists para pag-aralan po natin kung ano yung mayroon dito sa Apayao. Excited po ang mga scientists at researchers mula sa iba’t ibang universities na pumunta po dito dahil nga marami po tayong yaman na hindi pa natutuklasan dito sa Apayao,” he said, noting that the province holds untapped biodiversity that requires thorough study to strengthen conservation policies and sustainable development initiatives.
Meanwhile, Bulut-Begtang echoed the sentiment and noted that the research center will serve as a foundation of the province’s environmental programs, and hopes that conservation efforts remain sustainable and adaptable to changing challenges. By Apayao PIO
