by Aron Jaime D. Manilag
A hidden gem in Laguna, Yambo Lake offers tranquility and natural beauty. Unlike other San Pablo City’s popular lakes, it’s a secluded escape with fewer crowds, ideal for relaxation and nature connection (Trip Advisor, n.d.). Reaching it requires a short hike, helping to maintain the lake’s pristine state While not extensively developed, activities include bamboo raft rentals with meals or relaxing on the shore. Thus, Yambo Lake is perfect for a serene Laguna escape.
Last April 10, my friends and I planned to visit Yambo Lake, one of the seven lakes of San Pablo City, but at the same time, 20% of its area is under the jurisdiction of Nagcarlan, Laguna, including its entrance. . We secured a van ride going from SM City Calamba to Nagcarlan, Laguna. We arranged a pick-up point closer to our campus for convenience–Olivarez Plaza Mall. So, we make our little escape from the hustle and bustle of our academic requirements and stressors-alike, and let our skin feel the more mountainous side of Laguna as we watch the scenery inside the vehicle. To be honest, I expected the travel time to be longer, but it is actually quite short, must be the eye-pleasing sceneries from outside the van windows that kept me entertained throughout the ride!
Upon reaching the entrance, a designated area greeted us for settling fees. Entrance included a conservation fee of Php 20, along with a variety of activities available. We opted for the bamboo raft with a meal included, priced at Php 450 per person. Once we entered the premises of the ecotourism site, I, together with my friends really enjoyed our time as we navigate through the beautiful scape of Yambo Lake. It is nice to see how the lushes green touching each cottage fade into brown sand near the lake. The lake also offers a panoramic view of sturdy green trees fringing the banks from each perspective complementing the waters from beneath and the skies above. Undeniably, a one-of-a-kind experience.
The site boasts a range of activities for visitors: swimming in designated areas, bamboo rafting for two hours each session with tarzan jumping, swinging, and swimming included, and even a guided tour with a hike to the neighboring Pandin Lake, known for its stunning bluish waters. Nature enthusiasts could enjoy bird watching, while others could relax with a picnic by the lake or participate in team-building activities. Facilities included restrooms, shower rooms, cottages (varying in size to accommodate different groups), life vest rentals, a charging station near the entrance, trails, and conveniently placed garbage bins.
Sustainability and What to Ponder on Educational Component
While the activities and facilities offered a thrilling and enjoyable experience, a question lingers: are these practices truly sustainable? To answer this, we must consider the definition of ecotourism as outlined by the Philippine National Ecotourism Strategy (2002). This strategy defines ecotourism as a sustainable form of tourism practiced within natural and cultural areas. It emphasizes the involvement of local communities, environmental and cultural protection, and tourist education. Here’s where Yambo Lake shows both strengths and weaknesses.
The involvement of the local community is commendable. Residents are employed as tour guides (including rowers, cooks, and vendors), directly contributing to the site’s operations. Environmental protection measures are also evident, with designated zones where bamboo rafting is restricted. This highlights a commendable effort to strike a balance between tourism and fisheries, utilizing the lake as a source of income for the local population.
However, our experience lacked an educational component. The guided tour provided no information on the lake’s history, culture, or ecology. This missed opportunity could be addressed by training tour guides to incorporate environmental or historical knowledge into their narratives. Additionally, informative signage around the lake or a dedicated visitor center showcasing the cultural significance of the area would be valuable improvements. By incorporating these educational aspects, Yambo Lake could solidify its position as a true ecotourism destination, fostering a deeper appreciation for the environment among visitors.
That’s why…
Yambo Lake surely provides quality experience for its visitors, thanks to its sustainable practices and the friendly community members that continuously help the site to flourish as a commendable ecotourism site. However, upon my observation, the initiative and protection efforts done by the management such as community members and the local government unit is not enough in its mission. Zeroing in to the definition of Philippine National Ecotourism Strategy, educational aspect should always be considered to ensure that the protection of its natural resources and the promotion of the livelihood of the communities are not handled with just a band-aid solution or mechanism, rather, it should also involve the community instilling educational aspect to tourists or visitors to cultivate a culture of ecotourism wherein enjoyment of these attractions and offering is well-paired with education.
Picture Me!
I really think that this picture really encapsulate what Yambo Lake as an ecotourism site is! Here, we’re enjoying a relaxing bamboo raft ride (balsa) guided by friendly community members. The use of a sustainable bamboo raft is a key element of this activity. Unlike noisy motorboats, bamboo rafts glide silently through the water, minimizing disturbance to the lake’s delicate ecosystem. This image embodies the spirit of Yambo Lake: allowing visitors to experience the natural beauty of the lake while ensuring its long-term health and employment of its community.
Reference/s
LAKES PANDIN: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos). (n.d.). Tripadvisor. https://www.tripadvisor.com.ph/Attraction_Review-g298457-d3400883-Reviews-Lakes_Pandin-San_Pablo_City_Laguna_Province_Calabarzon_Region_Luzon.html
The ACACIA 
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