In celebration of the Season of Creation (September 1 to October 4), Ateneo de Naga University conducted a Trail Clean Up Drive along the Panicuason trail of Mt. Isarog Natural Park (MINP) in Naga City last September 15, 2025. This activity was initiated and organized by the INECAR along with the Theology Department of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHSS). Moreover, it was also supported by the Naga City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) and the Arts, Culture and Tourism Office (ACTO).
A popular hiking and ecotourism site, Mount Isarog Natural Park (MINP) is one of the Philippines’ most important biologically diverse ecosystems. It is home to many native and endemic species of plants and animals and it provides a long list of benefits (ecosystem services) that support communities in Bicol. Also, Mount Isarog is a significant part of a large watershed area that provides potable water to areas in Camarines Sur.
An online pre-climb meeting and activity orientation was conducted days before the actual climb. In the morning of September 15, participants composed of students, faculty, staff and a Jesuit priest hiked up to MINP’s Camp 1 at around 900 to 1000 meters above sea level. Official guides from the Naga City Arts and Culture Office assisted the team during the climb. Generally, the Panicuason trail was free from garbage except for the small pieces of plastic wrappers.
