LEADventure on Mountains: International Mountain Day 2021

MCC LEAD
Dec 11, 2021
2 min read

#MountainsMatter #InternationalMountainDay2021 #LEAD

The League of Environmental Advocates and Defenders (LEAD) joins the celebration of International Mountain Day!

The United Nations General Assembly designated 11 December "International Mountain Day." It has been observed every year since 2003, which primarily aims to raise awareness about the importance of mountains to human life, highlight the opportunities and constraints in mountain development, and build alliances that will bring positive change to mountain peoples and environments worldwide.

This year, the IMD focuses on sustainable mountain tourism. Mountains are not only host of about half of the world's biodiversity hotspots or home to many flora and fauna, but they also hold the grandiose of nature. Mountains offer breathtaking views that attract tourists, beneficial to economic growth.

Tourism is one of the sectors most affected by the Covid-19 pandemic. The restrictions of the pandemic in the mountains have further compounded the vulnerabilities of mountain communities. This crisis can be seen as an opportunity to rethink mountain tourism and its impact on natural resources. In light of this, sustainable mountain tourism provides new and alternative livelihood opportunities that can reduce poverty, social inclusion, and environmental protection.

Let us take the LEAD in taking ACTION to protect, preserve, and conserve our mountains.

FEATURED MT. HALCON

Mount Halcon is the natural dividing barrier of Oriental and Occidental Mindoro. It is one of the icons of Oriental Mindoro and is the highest peak in the province. Its height of 2,586 meters (8,484 ft) makes it the 18th highest mountain in the Philippines. It is also one of the best hiking destinations and one of the toughest mountains to climb in the country featuring long, often steep trails through dense jungle, crystal-clear waters from its rivers, as well as a magnificent summit with the view of a breathtaking sea of clouds.

FEATURED MS. RAQUEL VISAYA

"A walk with nature is my best therapy. Whenever I lose track of myself, it relieves all my pain and stress. It restores my soul making me feel rejuvenated and energized in everything I do throughout the day and even feel ready to face the new challenge for the next busy days. I am always amazed by how every hue creates a beautiful view whenever I see sunset during our hike. It will always be the journey and the experience that counts. We also care to leave nothing but footprints and live with great appreciation of every single matter that exist. Like mountains, every slope represents hope to strive harder until we reach the summit."