yApayaos
General information
This biosphere reserve in the Province of Apayao is divided into two distinct regions: the Upper Apayao sports rugged terrain with towering peaks, plateaus and valleys, whereas the Lower Apayao features flatlands adorned with rolling hills and plateaus. Stretching 180 km, the majestic Apayao River serves as a vital watershed, nurturing 18 tributaries across the province.
Recognized for its ecological significance, Apayao harbors the Apayao Lowland Forest Key Biodiversity Area, which has high levels of endemism and serves as a refuge for critically endangered species like the Philippine eagle (Pithecophaga jefferyi).
Detailed information
Key data
Year of nomination
2024
Country
Philippines
Total population
119184
Area
Surface
395,975.00 ha
Total terresterial area
395,975.00 ha
Location
Latitiude: 18.085 - Longitude: 121.1897222
Ecological Characteristics
Apayao is one of the Philippines’ last remaining lowland forests, and the Apayao Lowland Forest is one of Northern Luzon's 12 globally recognized Key Biodiversity Areas (KBA).
The site has a globally high level of endemism, including 18 Philippine endemic plants listed as threatened and 2 tree species listed as critically endangered by the IUCN. It is also home to the critically endangered Philippine Eagles (Pithecophaga jefferyi), indicating a healthy dipterocarp forest and the presence of prey items.
Socio-Economics Characteristics
yApayaos is a name that encompasses both the people and diverse flora and fauna living in the area. There are various ethnolinguistic groups and ten Indigenous Cultural Communities whose traditions and laws are deeply intertwined with the land and its resources. Notably, the Isnag/Isneg community constitutes 30 percent of the population; it upholds the Lapat system, a unique customary practice regulating the use of natural resources and protection of the environment. The population of some 124 000 engages primarily in rice and corn cultivation. However, ecotourism is progressing in the province.