Hello friend, 

It’s been a while since we’ve spotlighted an AST Changemaker. We thought there’s no better way to start 2025 than by sharing the inspiring story of Ann and Billie Dumaliang, co-founders of the Masungi Georeserve Foundation.

These two incredible sisters are leading the charge to protect one of the Philippines’ most important natural treasures. We hope their journey resonates with you.

On another note, if you’re a regular reader of this newsletter, you’ve likely seen the launch of the AST Sustainability Solution Provider Directory.

This week, we’re excited to share an exclusive opportunity for those who get on board early. Don’t miss the very important details below.

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Ann and Billie Dumaliang: Guardians of Masungi Georeserve

Conversations about sustainable tourism in the Philippines often circle back to one name — the Masungi Georeserve. Nestled in the rugged rainforests of Rizal, this limestone haven is more than just a conservation area. It’s a battleground, a sanctuary, and, for sisters Ann and Billie Dumaliang, a lifelong calling.

Named among TIME's Next Generation Leaders in 2024, their fearless commitment to safeguarding a fragile ecosystem has captivated global audiences. Their work becomes even more significant in a country grappling with land grabs and deforestation.

Ann and Billie's passion for conservation runs deep, rooted in childhood weekends spent exploring Masungi under the guidance of their father, Ben Dumaliang.

Billie explains, “Our father inspired us to get involved with Masungi Georeserve. He instilled in us a deep appreciation for nature and the environment. Growing up, we witnessed his dedication to conservation and environmental stewardship, which significantly influenced our own values and aspirations.”

Their early connection to Masungi sparked a deep-seated commitment, building the foundation for the legacy they are now passionately carrying forward.

Conservation Beyond the Surface

Masungi Georeserve isn’t your average eco-park; it’s a critical part of Philippine biodiversity. It is a 2,700-hectare expanse of prehistoric limestone formations and home to over 400 species of flora and fauna. 

It also serves as an important water reservoir for nearby communities, helping to alleviate the persistent flooding problems in Rizal and Metro Manila.

However, protecting this natural resource is far from easy. The sisters have had to deal with constant threats from illegal loggers and land grabbers, some of which have escalated into acts of violence against their rangers. In an interview with TIME, Billie cited a chilling incident from 2021 when two rangers were shot.

“Masungi Georeserve faces complex conservation challenges,” she says. “Threats of violence, illegal land grabbing by organized syndicates, and unauthorized fencing, often involving resort owners and professional squatters, are just some of the ongoing risks. Quarrying and interference from political and business entities add further risks, straining resources needed for protection. Proposed developments like a wind farm within protected zones could disrupt local biodiversity, while disinformation campaigns attempt to erode public trust."

They even receive inconsistent support from local authorities.

"The attempt to cancel Masungi’s Memorandum of Agreement with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has undermined the project, increasing the reserve's vulnerability to these pressures."

Rather than be cowed, they’ve doubled down on their commitment.

"Urbanization and land use change pressures will keep growing, so conservation projects also need to accelerate education and mobilization efforts to gain stronger power and influence to defend our landscapes. We need to create champions out of our leaders, lobby for stronger policies and enforcements, and create a community of advocates," says Billie.

The sisters focus not just on physical conservation but also on intangible lessons about resilience and adaptability.

“We have learned the importance of resilience, persistence, patience, and a good sense of humor. We have reflected many times on how shortcuts bring power to the wrong people, and investing that much or more in the community empowers more people for the better,” Ann says.

"It takes an ecosystem of doing good to make the scale of change we want. As we embrace that and stay consistent in our values despite hardships, the force for good becomes more powerful — not just for Masungi but for many who care about the places they call home. We have also learned to take care of ourselves. We aren’t beaten until we give up, and long-term initiatives like restoration and environmental conservation require finding joy in the process."

Innovative Strategies for a Fragile Ecosystem

What makes Masungi stand out isn’t just its breathtaking terrain but the innovative strategies the Dumaliangs have implemented to sustain it.

They follow UNESCO's Global Geopark model which focuses on balancing conservation, education, and sustainable development. This approach helps preserve Masungi while encouraging local community involvement, scientific research, and eco-friendly tourism.

“Unlike many other reserves, Masungi’s conservation efforts are heavily community-led,” Billie explains. “The Masungi Geopark Project mobilizes nearby communities and stakeholders in reforestation and long-term conservation, enabling local stewards to take active roles in restoring over 2,700 hectares of degraded land surrounding the reserve.”

Meanwhile, their “low volume, high value” ecotourism strategy ensures that visitors not only enjoy the site but also leave with a deeper understanding of the environment.

»»» Read more about how the Dumaliang sisters emphasize authenticity in what they build to contribute to the landscape’s natural narrative.

Why Storytelling Matters

The Dumaliangs believe that every rock, tree, and ridge at Masungi holds a story worth telling. And this storytelling is their “secret weapon” in promoting sustainable tourism.

When visitors hear the backstory — how the land was exploited and how communities came together— they leave as advocates. They don’t just trek through; they take a piece of Masungi’s fighting spirit home with them.

»»» Learn about what the Dumaliang sisters hope to achieve with storytelling.

A Deeper Connection to Nature

For Ann and Billie, their work isn’t purely scientific or economic. It’s also deeply spiritual. Ann reflects, “Lately, I’ve been reflecting on the profound spirituality embedded in conservation—a dimension that often goes unspoken.”

She recalls a poignant moment from a debrief at an event in Davos last year when an elder remarked, “It is not even about living better, but living well.”

»»» Hear what Ann says about how spiritual connection can help us move beyond transactional relationships with nature.

The Rewards of Stewardship

International recognition has become not just a badge of honor but a safeguard.

"It has given us a bigger platform to tell our story to the world. TIME has profiled some of the world’s largest movements and inspirational leaders, so our inclusion gave us the inspiration that the world is watching and looking after Masungi’s story," Billie explains.

»»» Find out what other recognitions Ann and Billie have earned for their conservation work.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Ann and Billie's story reminds us that while the problems our planet faces are daunting, the solutions start with individuals willing to dream big and take bold steps. Their legacy at Masungi Georeserve is not just in the biodiversity they fight to protect or the forests they have restored—it’s in the minds they have inspired to carry their vision forward.

 Get Listed on the AST Sustainability Solution Providers Directory

In the coming weeks, AST will launch a groundbreaking program designed to connect sustainability solution providers and Asia’s hotels and travel companies. 

A central feature is our curated Sustainability Solution Providers Directory, a go-to resource for businesses seeking trusted partners to accelerate their sustainability goals.

Here’s the great news – you can get involved right now.

If you are a solution provider, we invite you to visit our website and submit your information for review in order to get listed.

Getting listed is completely free.

What sets the AST Sustainability Solution Providers Directory apart?

Sure, ChatGPT can quickly generate a list of companies for you. 

But our recommendations are based on thorough research and personal experience, ensuring that each listed provider is truly delivering real impact. 

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• It’s free; no strings attached: Showcase your solutions now without spending a cent. 

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• Gain instant credibility: Unlike generic search results, AST is a trusted platform that features only vetted, high-impact solution providers. 

What’s in it for hospitality and travel companies?

• Discover and connect with vetted, high-impact solutions to integrate sustainability into your operations – saving you time and reducing guesswork.

🌟 A Special Time-Limited Offer for you 🌟

Be among the first 10 companies listed before 31 January 2025.

When our premium Sustainability Solution Providers membership launches, you’ll unlock an extra month of premium perks (worth up to USD 2,200).

That’s a little thank you from us for getting onboard early. 

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