ASEAN Heritage Park: Agusan Marsh welcomes homeschoolers to a unique learning experience
By Kelvin Kennt R. Generalo
PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur (PIA) — Offering an unforgettable learning experience beyond the traditional classroom, the Agusan Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary recently welcomed a group of homeschooled children and their parents to explore its rich biodiversity, unique culture, and vibrant floating community in Lake Panlabuhan, Loreto, Agusan del Sur.
Recognized as an ASEAN Heritage Park, Agusan Marsh is one of the region’s key protected areas, celebrated for its ecological significance, diverse wildlife, and valuable freshwater wetland ecosystem.
It serves as a habitat for various resident and migratory birds, fish, reptiles, and other wildlife, while sustaining communities whose livelihoods and way of life are closely connected to the marsh.
During their visit, the young learners observed different species of migratory birds that travel from colder regions to seek food and shelter in the wetlands. They also learned about the importance of conserving the marsh, protecting its biodiversity, and understanding the effects of climate phenomena such as El Niño on its ecosystem and the communities that depend on it.
Beyond appreciating nature, the children had the opportunity to interact with residents of the floating village and gain firsthand insights into their daily lives, traditions, and resourcefulness.
The educational visit was organized by a homeschooling community to provide children with meaningful learning opportunities through actual experiences and cultural immersion.
Homeschooling allows parents to take a direct role in their children’s education, guiding their learning through lessons, activities, and experiences outside conventional school settings.
Grace Ravanera, a mother of three homeschooled children who traveled from Bukidnon, described the experience as memorable and extraordinary.
“It’s indescribable, very beautiful, it’s one of a kind, and we love the immersion, especially because we are bringing the kids with us. They can see the way of life here and appreciate the beauty of the marsh,” Ravanera said.
The children also explored the creative use of natural resources through a slipper-making activity using water hyacinth, an abundant aquatic plant in the marsh. The activity introduced them to the potential of transforming locally available materials into useful products while promoting resourcefulness and environmental awareness.
Agusan Marsh is also known for its significant role in regulating floodwaters, serving as a natural catchment basin that helps store excess water during heavy rainfall. It gained international attention as the former habitat of Lolong, once recognized as the world’s largest crocodile in captivity.
For Bella, one of the participating homeschooled children, the visit was both enjoyable and educational.
“It’s nice, and the place is really pretty. The marsh is so fun, and we help the kids there. It is fun, and we also learn more things. It’s cool,” she shared.
Tour guide Jeane Christian Lozada highlighted how cultural immersion allowed the children to experience the everyday activities of families living in the protected area.
“When we say cultural immersion, they can feel and experience the life of the children in the Agusan Marsh Sanctuary. They’ve tried canoeing, catching fish, hauling fish, and they’ve even given books and old toys. They feel the story of the children and people living there,” Lozada said.
The educational tour also included visits to other destinations in Agusan del Sur. The group experienced chocolate-making using cacao beans at a chocolate production facility in Bunawan and explored Bega Falls and Puting Buhangin Cave in Prosperidad, adding more opportunities for nature appreciation and experiential learning.
Agusan del Sur Governor Santiago B. Cane Jr. also welcomed the visitors and expressed hope that the experience would help broaden the children’s understanding of nature, culture, and the province’s tourism destinations.
“I think they were able to learn many things. They were amazed to see different crablets inside the cave. They were also able to see insects that can only be found inside the cave. They experienced a real waterfall and enjoyed swimming. I am happy that they came to Agusan del Sur to expose their children to these places and immerse them in the community,” Cane said.
The visit underscored how learning extends beyond books and conventional classrooms. Through firsthand encounters with wildlife, local communities, and natural attractions, the children gained valuable lessons in environmental conservation, cultural appreciation, and community life.
As an ASEAN Heritage Park, Agusan Marsh stands not only as a vital sanctuary for biodiversity but also as a living classroom where future generations can discover the importance of protecting nature while understanding the people and communities who call it home. (KKRG, PIA Agusan del Sur with a report from PTV Agusan del Sur/Photo Credit: Happy Homeschool)