Most of us would pay little attention to the small flowers that we pass by along the way. Most of us would not notice the towering trees and the vast green fields. But if you go to the farms I'll mention below, you will rediscover the beauty and bounty of our nature here in the Philippines. Get in touch with nature as we tour around the loveliest farms in the country.
Are you an orchid lover? If yes, then the C @ B Orchid Farm in Maguinao, San Rafael, Bulacan is the best destination for you. Visit more than 100,000 orchids of different species on a 12-hectare piece of land under the stewardship of world-renowned inventor, Bonifacio Isidro.
Moving on, if you are near Bohol City, there is a great eco-tourism attraction in Panglao where you can take your family for an extraordinary nature trip. It is the Bohol Coco Farm located in Libaong, Panglao Island, Bohol.
Here is their Mission Statement:
“We aspire to harness the art of coconut cultivation and endeavor to unfold the possibilities of creating new and distinct by-products of coconut through fun and recreation.”
You will be introduce to the simple life in the farm. There is a variety of herbs and vegetables growing in their natural (organic) state. Then, don’t forget to look on the free range of chickens and pigs as well. The ultimate thrill in visiting the farm is the Coco Sky Walk, a great way to view the surrounding areas and landscapes.
If you miss the taste of pineapples, try visitng Del Monte Philippines Inc. (DMPI) Pineapple Plantation in Bukidnon. Considered as the biggest pineapple plantation in the Far East, the vast tracks of pineapple-laden lands of DMPI are a major attraction of the Municipality of Manolo Fortich. A majority of its products is exported to the USA, Europe, the Middle East, and other parts of Asia.
Next is the Bukidnon Forests, Inc. (BFI) Industrial Tree Plantation. This 39,000-hectare reforestation project (21,000 hectares of which are plantable) demonstrates the compatibility of nature with economic objectives. Funded with the assistance of the New Zealand government under the auspices of DENR, the project has been operational since 1990. The City of Malaybalay and the municipalities of Impasugong, Manolo Fortich, and Malitbog are the areas covered by the plantation. Its 5-hectare nursery is capable of producing 5.2 million fast-growing seedlings every year.
Just like many Filipinos, I consider banana as a staple food. Aside from providing protein and potassium, it gives a lot of other vitamins and minerals that our body needs. Located in the highlands of Barangay Alanib, Lantapan, Mount Kitanglad Agri-Ventures, Inc. (MKAVI) Banana Plantation is one of the main sources of fresh banana in our country. It started its operation in 1998 and it is the leading producer of quality highland sweet bananas which employs environmental conservation practices, manifesting the company’s high regard for the environment.
Another plantation of banana is the Dole South Skyland Banana Plantation. Located in Barangay Dagumbaan Maramag, this 800-hectare banana plantation contributes to the supply of bananas for exportation. Other banana plantations are in Barangays San Miguel and Kuya.
The next destination spot that a tourist must see is the Menzi Agricultural Farms & Orchard Homes located in Barangay Damilag, Manolo Fortich. It covers a land area of 350 hectares that cultivates oranges, pineapple, cut flowers, cacao, and coffee. The colorful scene and lively ambiance of the farm will easy your worries away.
Let’s go to another paradise of the country. If you want and explore a different place, try to visit Danao. Aside from Danao Adventure Park, the town also boasts of its Organic Farm. You will surely enjoy the fresh green lettuce for your salads and basil for you pasta.
The agri-tourism in Guimaras is consisted of eight farm sites and covers all five municipalities. These farms range from orchards and bee farms to salt farms and and aqua culture ponds. I will only name two farms out of eight, and if you are interested and want to read more about Guimaras, just go to this link: https://guimaras.gov.ph/tourism/agricultural-tourism/
First on my discovery is the Guimaras’ Wonders Farm! It is an Integrated Agri-Eco Tourism Destination. The farm has young ready to bear fruits, mango plantation, all year round pineapple production, tropical fruits and organic vegetables production, and tilapia culture. They practice organic farming and rapid composting.
Experience the sweet humming breeze in a relaxing and melodious nature’s view under the cashew trees. Fresh pineapple fruits and juices are made available to walk-in clients. Remember, pick and pay pineapple fruits are allowed during harvest time.
Next is the Guimaras Bee Center. Already known for its world famous mangoes and pristine beaches, Guimaras Island has expanded its attractions with the putting up of a bee farm on the island. The Pinewoods Bee Garden is the first bee farm in Western Visayas complementing the eco-tourism thrusts of the 60,460-hectare island-province. After observing the bees, guests can lounge at the bar. The restaurant offers a wide array of dishes including salads, appetizers, and pasta.
Go Baguio! Visit and experience strawberry picking in the Strawberry Farm in the nearby La Trinidad, Benguet. It is a unique activity that will surely give you so much fun and a memorable bonding moment with your family.