Situated in the Philippines’ most extensive mountain range lies the Masungi georeserve.<br><br>As recently as 1993, the surrounding forest faced imminent destruction from illegal logging. The Philippines government declared the area as a nature reserve, and, in an unusual move, teamed up with private developer Blue Star Development to protect the land. Efforts involved restoring fences to prevent land trafficking and the illegal extraction of resources.<sup>1</sup> <br><br>In recent years, with responsible tourism as a guiding principle, the company has developed mindful initiatives, including low-impact hiking trails and an online booking system to regulate the flow of tourists. These steps ensure that despite its growing popularity the Masungi georeserve can manage its capacity and grow sustainably. Visitors must also honour the georeserve’s environmental policies, which include no littering, smoking or noise pollution. Fines for non-compliance are set at 3,000 Philippine pesos (about £50).<sup>2</sup> <br><br>A significant achievement of the Masungi georeserve is the positive impact it has had on the local community. Many of the reserve’s workforce were the same loggers who once threatened the land. The reserve has provided them employment, boosting the local economy and removing the need for logging and other illegal activities. Members of indigenous communities, such as the local Dumagat Tribe, lead discovery trails, showcasing their knowledge of the area’s natural formations, flora and fauna. The Silayan Restaurant, a dining venue inside the georeserve, sources ingredients from local farmers and producers.<sup>3</sup> The georeserve serves as a model for achieving sustainable tourism by harnessing local talent. <br><br>At a time when natural resources are increasingly at risk, this little-known project is quietly leading the way to a more sustainable world.<br>