This sanctuary has 14 stations to signify the eminence and significance of the “Cosmic Journey” and the importance of the ecological balance. This cosmic journey indicates that a journey through the ancient caves and over a hanging bridge beckons the people towards an internal journey.

BY DIANA JEAN MERILLANA
Northern Dispatch
Posted by Bulatlat
Vol. VIII, No. 10, April 13-19, 2008

It has been more than a decade since the devastating 7.7 magnitude, forty five-second earthquake hit Baguio City. It was the most disastrous earthquake yet in the modern Cordillera Region.

Before that there was a stronger one in the 1600s, which reportedly had an intensity equivalent to 8.0 in the Richter scale.

Many commercial buildings, hotels, inns, and houses were damaged and about 1,000 residents were either maimed or killed in the 1990 earthquake.Roads going to Baguio were blocked by landslides and hundreds of motorists stranded along the highways. Worse, Baguio industry halted. In terror, people suffered from water and food shortage. The city was only accessed by air, courtesy of military and privately owned aircraft.

This tragedy inspired the creation of the Maryknoll Ecological Sanctuary.

Remembering what happened, we then realized what destruction it brought to the people of Baguio. The agony of those who are left by their loved ones shall never fully heal.

In spite of this tragedy, individuals still surpassed their miseries. Their courageous acts renewed what was lost.

People became aware of the environment. They founded agencies, institutions and projects that maintain the environment’s wellness.

One project is the Maryknoll Ecological Sanctuary which provides environmental education grounded on contemporary scientific knowledge and understanding.

This sanctuary has 14 stations to signify the eminence and significance of the “Cosmic Journey” and the importance of the ecological balance. This cosmic journey indicates that a trip through the ancient caves and over a hanging bridge beckons to the people toward an internal exploration.

The first station reflects the formation of the universe. The fifth and eighth stations depict the origins of the mammals and primates. The final two stations reflect the earth ecclesiastical customs and heritage and a Bio-shelter.

The Sanctuary at present shows the recovery of Baguio. The care that the people bestow on their environment made the city come back to life once more. Northern Dispatch/Posted by (Bulatlat.com)

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