LIST: Day tours, fun activities in 3 'green' destinations in the Philippines

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine government, particularly the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), is now prioritizing its investment efforts on what it calls the Green Economy Model (GEM).

GEM is a collective of Philippine destinations that are lauded for their conservation efforts and practices, sustainable goods and services, as well as effective coral reef ecosystem management. Deemed worthy to be part of the GEM are five local destinations — Coron in Palawan, Panglao in Bohol, Siargao in Surigao del Sur, Puerto Galera in Mindoro and El Nido in Palawan.

To support government efforts to promote GEM, digital travel platform Agoda puts its own spotlight on three of the five GEM destinations that are leading the pack in more conscious tourism: Coron, Panglao and Siargao.

Coron and Siargao Island are havens for those seeking tranquility by the sea, while Panglao offers quiet beaches and diving spots. Beyond their stunning seascapes, all three destinations make it easy for travelers to take part in conservation practices that keep these beloved destinations pristine.

World-renowned for its lush islands and serene waters in shades of emerald and turquoise, experiences beyond sea activities can be also be enjoyed in Coron, Palawan.

Travelers can visit Coron Natural Farms, which holds generations’ worth of knowledge in eco-tourism and indigenous wisdom, for a day tour that will showcase the rudiments of natural farming. The activity culminates in an authentic farm-to-table and even a reef-to-table experience, where travelers get to enjoy cuisine made from local produce, such as arugula, chicken eggs, and various seafood. The seafood is harvested from the reef, which is protected by the farm’s ridge-to-reef structure.

A trip to Palawan would not be complete without island hopping. With Agoda’s Activities feature, travelers can book packages such as the Coron Palawan Reef & Wrecks Tour, which introduces travelers to marine life and a gunboat wreck from the distant past, at a great deal.

Panglao is every bit an eco-friendly destination starting from the Bohol-Panglao International Airport. Tagged as “the green gateway,” the Philippines’ first