Samar ( Northern)

Biri-Larosa Protected Landscape and Seascape

Overview: Biri-Larosa has a surreal landscape of dense mangroves, sandstone and siltstone cliffs forming natural edgy formations that call to mind stairways, animal shapes, mushrooms, and nab amphitheater.

Eco features: Biri Island is one of the 18 islands that make up the Balicuarto Islands, located off the northernmost tip of Samar. In April 2000, the Biri-Larosa Coastal Community (BLCC), comprised of Biri Island, Lavezares, Rosario and San Jose municipalities, was declared a protected landscape and seascape.

Surreal Land Scapea

Biri's Surreal Rock Formations

Supporting organization: Through its Coastal Environmental Program (CEP), DENR manages BLCC in collaboration with the Samar Center for Rural Education and Development (SACRED), a local non government organization, and the University of the Eastern Philippines. Klub Natur organizes guided eco tours for five to 10 persons.

How to get there: There are regular flights from Manila to Catarman. From Catarman, take a 45-minute ride via private or public utility jeepney to get to Lavezares. Then take a 45-minute motorized banca ride to Biri Island.

Where to stay: Bonbon Beach Resort (tel:+63939/ 501 1685, url: www. bonbonbeachresort.com) is a family-owned resort on Dancalan Beach that offers standard, deluxe ocean view and large family rooms with aircon and standard hotel amenities. It’s about 20 minutes away from Catarman Airport.

Photo and Article Source: Inflight Magazine ( Seair)