Lulugayan FallsA new ecotourism site awaits travel enthusiasts in Samar—a place where one can have an adventure on a hanging bridge, take “Instagrammable” photos on a view deck with Lulugayan Falls as the background or just take a plunge! Barangay Literon Women’s Association and Lulugayan Falls Tour Guides are the newest assisted people’s organizations of Bantay Kalikasan.

The two groups led an activity where 40 participants composed of the organizations’ members, Bantay Kalikasan and 87IB 8ID of the Philippine Army worked together to clear the way to the falls. They also implemented minimal landscaping along the pathway. Meanwhile, Bantay Kalikasan assessed the area to know how deep the waters are and to designate sections where guests can swim. Jun Figueroa, Bantay Kalikasan operations manager for the Yolanda-affected areas, said: “This activity was initiated to encourage camaraderie and volunteerism among members of the associations as they are about to work together to man the new ecotourism site.” Aside from taking “Instagram-worthy” photos, visitors can also dine in a restaurant that will serve local and organic food. Through the funds donated to Operation Sagip after typhoon Yolanda struck the area in 2013, Bantay Kalikasan implemented the project to provide livelihood to the residents of Brgy. Literon.(Story/Photos by: Althea Cahayag)