This vast forest of 359,500 hectares,is the largest protected area in the Philippines as it is flanked by the Sierra Madre Mountain Range on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other and in 1997 it was decreed a protected area by the Philippine Government a status which became permanent in 2001. Although most of the forest remains virually untouched it is still susceptible to illegal logging and mining as extractive permits previously granted are still honored,with the logs smuggled out through the rivers.  The trees and vegetation still stand as they did during the days of ancient times when our forefathers lived off the forests by sustainable means,gathering only the amount needed for the meal allowing time for replenishment and regeneration. On the outskirts of the forest beside the sea and beside rivers live the nomadic Dumagat or Agta of Palanan in much the same way as their ancestors lived in decades past. NSMNP is home to the Philippines Eagle,Isabela Oriole,Philippine crocodile,Philippine Jade Vine and Humpback Whales.

HOW TO GET THERE:

The NSMNP is reachable by plane and by sea through Palanan and nearby Maconancon.

The Department of Tourism has guided tours through the Park and Palanan town :

http://www.dotpcvc.gov.ph/starstudded/wowcagayanvalley.html