Banwa Private Island is proud to support the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity and its initiatives to raise awareness about biodiversity conservation through art and education.
The one-night-only ‘Biodiversity in Full Color’ art exhibition showcased the stunning artworks of Ms. Samantha Kaspar. She is a talented artist with special needs whose passion for nature is evident in her vibrant paintings. Her works featured a diverse array of species, from colorful birds and fish to intricate corals as well as plants.
Photo shows Ms. Samantha Kaspar stands in front of the bed headframe coral artwork at the
Northeast Principal Villa on Banwa Private Island (above photo of the collage). This stunning
piece, inspired by the island’s thriving coral reef, served as one of her painting inspirations for the
recent art exhibit (below photo of the collage). The bed headframe’s design is a testament to the
Aquos Foundation’s Reef Ball regeneration project.
Moreover, as a testament to its efforts, Banwa Private Island, recently recognized as one of the Philippines’ top 10 Important Shark and Ray Areas. This recognition also highlights the island’s critical importance in preserving these vulnerable species and their habitats. To further bolster its conservation efforts, the island has undertaken important research projects, including studies on the native Tabon Bird (or Philippine Megapode) and Mantanani Scops Owl, as well as initiatives to preserve the indigenous beach forests where these species nest.
Photo shows Ms. Samantha Kaspar’s stunning painting (above photo of the collage) of the
endangered Tabon birds (or Philippine megapode) captures the beauty and fragility of these
unique creatures (inset photo), highlighting the importance of conservation efforts on Banwa
Private Island.
Respecting the Nature
Ms. Janet Oquendo, Island Manager of Banwa Private Island, stated, “Aquos Foundation’s mission to protect marine ecosystems deeply resonates with Ms. Samantha’s beautiful and evocative artworks. Her paintings also capture the essence of the underwater world, reminding us of the delicate balance of nature. Thus, we’re honored to have supported her and to continue contributing to the preservation of our island home’s fragile ecosystems through our conservation initiatives. They also include research on native species and habitat preservation.”
In addition to the art exhibition, Banwa Private Island’s Aquos Foundation, in partnership with the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park and World Heritage Site Management Office recently, held an inspiring event for students from Tumarbong Elementary School. The event featured the introduction of the book “Mga Hero ng Planetang Blue,” produced by the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity. The book inspires young readers to become guardians of our planet.
