Manito, Albay, Philippines
Nag-Aso
Boiling Lake
Hidden within the lush landscapes of Manito, Albay lies one of the Philippines’ most extraordinary geothermal wonders — Nag-Aso Boiling Lake.
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Sorsogon State University
Project
DANAO
The project’s full title — Demographic Characterization to Advance Nag-Aso Lake Advocacies in Optimizing Benefits Among Stakeholders — reflects its mission to bridge science, environmental conservation, and community empowerment.
SorSU with NRCP
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Discover how research, community engagement, and conservation efforts are transforming Nag-Aso Lake into a model for sustainable ecotourism and environmental stewardship.
Explore the natural beauty, biodiversity, culture, and unique geothermal wonders of the hidden gem of Manito, Albay.
Access scientific studies, policy briefs, advocacy materials, and educational resources developed through Project DANAO.
View the project’s milestones, impact highlights, partnerships, and measurable accomplishments through the years.
PROJECT DANAO
Bridging Nature, Science, and Community
Hidden within the lush landscapes of Manito, Albay lies one of the Philippines’ most extraordinary geothermal wonders.
Nag-Aso Boiling Lake. Known for its steaming waters, rich biodiversity, and deep cultural heritage, the lake stands as a living symbol of nature’s power and the enduring connection between environment and community.
Project DANAO
Project DANAO, derived from the local term for “lake,” is a comprehensive research and conservation initiative focused on the protection and sustainable development of Nag-Aso Boiling Lake in Manito, Albay. The project recognizes the deep connection between the lake ecosystem and the surrounding communities whose lives, culture, and livelihoods are closely intertwined with its natural resources. The project’s full title — Demographic Characterization to Advance Nag-Aso Lake Advocacies in Optimizing Benefits Among Stakeholders — reflects its mission to bridge science, environmental conservation, and community empowerment. Through scientific research, socio-economic assessment, cultural documentation, and stakeholder collaboration, Project DANAO aims to strengthen sustainable management practices and promote responsible eco-tourism in the area.
Publication
Project DANAO successfully produced research publications and conference-ready studies highlighting the socio economic, environmental, and conservation issues surrounding Nag-Aso Lake.
Patent/IP
The project developed and copyrighted various IEC materials, policy briefs, brochures, documentary videos, and community profile publications for conservation advocacy.
People Service
Project DANAO provided community training, stakeholder engagement activities, and capacity-building programs for local enumerators and partner communities.
Place/Partnership
Strong partnerships and collaborative agreements were established with the LGU of Manito, DENR Region V, people’s organizations, and other stakeholders to support conservation initiatives.
Policy
The project successfully developed policy briefs and contributed technical inputs for the proposed ordinance on the conservation and ecotourism development of Nag-Aso Lake.
SDG Alinged
Five Sustainable Development Goals are aligned within this project such as SD Goal 2, Goal 5, Goal 12, Goal 15, and Goal 17. Encouraging eco-tourism and livelihood opportunities while preserving the lake ecosystem.
Studying the geothermal, ecological, and biodiversity characteristics of Nag-Aso Lake.
Community Engagement
Understanding the lives, traditions, and livelihoods of the lakeside communities.
Promoting sustainable practices, environmental awareness, and ecological protection.
Nag-Aso: The Boiling Lake
Location: Manito, Albay, Philippines
Ecosystem Type: Geothermal Wetland Lake
Elevation: Approximately 17 meters above sea level
Lake Size: Around 3 hectares
Water Temperature: Approximately 87°C–100°C
Unique Feature: Steaming or “boiling” water caused by geothermal activity
Biodiversity: Home to diverse flora, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and endemic species
Community Connection: Shared by Barangays Hulogan and Balabagon – Manito, Albay, Philippines
A Geothermal Wonder in the Heart of Albay
Our Partners
National Research Council of the Philippines (DOST-NRCP)
Department of Science and Technology (DOST)
Department of Environment and Natural Resources Region V
Local Government Unit of Manito
Partido State University
Join us in transforming research into lasting impact!
Together, let us protect Nag-Aso Lake, empower communities, and build a future
where nature and people thrive as one.
“Project DANAO bridges nature, science, and community to preserve the legacy of Nag-Aso Lake for future generations.”
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Demographic Characterization to Advance Nag-aso Lake Conservation and Advocacies in Optimizing Benefits among Stakeholders.
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Sorsogon State University, Graduate School
Magsaysay Street, Sorsogon City, Philippines
056 211-0103
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