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Come visit Batanes, the northernmost and
smallest province of the Philippines in terms of population
and land area. The spectacular quality of the Ivatan
landscape, which has outstanding scenic aesthetic natural
qualities, whose dramatic patterns and features have been
the setting adapted by Ivatan people through centuries. The
wind swept islands of Batanes are beautiful and enchanting
and they are like no other in the Philippines. The isolation
and remoteness of the islands have helped preserved its
natural and cultural values, the wealth of archaeological
sites that demonstrate the oldness of a culture that date as
far back the Austronesian and Neotlithic migration and
occupation. This has reinforced the unspoiled character of
the place. Since Batanes is separated from the country by
miles of rough waters, the Ivatans have developed a
different culture. Ivatans are honest, gentle and polite but
brave and robust. They are proud of their their heritage and
their land. The vivid story of the Ivatan endeavor is living
evidence of centuries of sustainable survival, largely based
on limited agricultural and marine food resources. Ivatan's
interaction with nature has always been guided by harmony.
This has yielded outstanding sustainable land use practices
that are largely based on the Ivatan cooperative systems.
They have helped to maintain a diverse species and
ecosystems; demonstrating centuries of sustainable
existence, but, which has recently experienced a declining
state of conservation, primarily caused by limited natural
resources and external influences. The overall existing
landscape and culture manifest the Ivatans response to his
challenging environment. It is a heritage that bears witness
to both a vanished and living culture. There are a lot of
things to do and see in Batanes, swim on the many beaches,
see the fishing villages, the churches and lighthouses,
island hop, but best of all, it is a beautiful place to
reflect and admire nature. A trip to Batanes bestows one a
feeling timelessness...an experience that will linger long
after arriving back home. It makes one appreciate the simple
things in life, but in a deeper sense. But be forewarned
though, once you've experienced Batanes, it will haunt you
to come back... |
