Upper Marikina River Basin Protected Landscape, Protected landscape in Rizal Province, Philippines
This protected landscape is a natural area in the Sierra Madre Mountains covering roughly 26,000 hectares with multiple rivers and varied ecosystems. The terrain contains forests, grasslands, and waterways that support diverse plant and animal life.
The area was first protected in 1904 as a water source for Manila and has served that function through the Wawa Dam system ever since. This designation marked a turning point in recognizing the need to safeguard the mountains for the region's water supply.
Local farmers have cultivated vegetables along the riverbanks for generations, shaping how the land is used and organized today. This farming tradition remains visible in the fields and the daily rhythm of communities throughout the area.
You can enter the protected area through multiple gates located across five municipalities in Rizal Province. Plan your visit by choosing an entry point ahead of time based on where you are staying or what part of the area interests you most.
Eight major river tributaries flow through the landscape and eventually merge into the main Marikina River before reaching the Manggahan Floodway. This network of waterways is crucial for managing water flow across the entire region.
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