Southeast Asia’s rainforests, rich in biodiversity and culture, have long drawn travelers from around the world. But this natural and cultural allure is under threat from rapid deforestation and environmental decline. Data from Ecocare in 2024 indicates that Southeast Asia has experienced forest degradation for decades. This also became relevant in the Philippines, where natural forest loss reached 43.8 kha in 2024, contributing to 24.0 million metric tons of CO₂ emissions. Despite progress, illegal logging, agricultural expansion, and infrastructure development continue to threaten its remaining green spaces.
Beyond government action, Filipino filmmakers and environmental activists are leveraging film as a powerful medium to raise awareness of deforestation and biodiversity loss. Documentaries and short films showcased at events like the Klima Film Festival and Science Film Festival highlight the importance of preserving green spaces amid rapid urbanization. Independent filmmakers have also produced works focusing on the Philippines’ vanishing forests and the impact of climate change on local biodiversity.
