I’ve really found it hard to stomach the idea that mere humans who have been only around for a couple of million years – or a few thousand years if you’re a creationist *snicker* — would have the gall to rank geographical features of the Earth that have been progressively evolving and changing through more than millions of years.
What’s even more insulting is that support for these so-called wonders is largely based on national loyalties. Most of the justification stems from the fact that it is a popularity contest and an added boost to tourism would always be good for the Philippines. I guess most Filipinos don’t really care that much as long as we end up with a globally-recognized tourist trap. Matters that concern nature need not be a competition. When we look at natural wonders, it should be from the perspective as a child of the Earth – not through snotty, insecure and pseudo-patriotic mindset that seeks to power vote through every Miss Universe pageant’s Most Photogenic Award competition.
I have written about this in the past, and sadly, it seems like a lot of people don’t get my point.To them, it was more important to push for Mayon Volcano as the most breath taking of all peaks in the world – and yes, to argue that the Underground River has more wondrous value compared to the mighty Amazon River.While I consider the Tubbataha Reef as a truly awe-inspiring site, opening it up to greater tourism might end up ruining this great marine treasure. If anything, the Department of Tourism has proven that sustainable development of our tourist destinations is not exactly a main objective.
The Filipino brand of pride and insecurity can be quite laughable at times. I sincerely hope that we don’t win. Let the Amazon have it.
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I see your point. My-country-right-or-wrong is absurdly ridiculous if this drives you to say the Underground River is far better than the Amazon. Ah, but that's our Pinoy chip on the shoulder talking.
your a moron. your idea of so-called wonders is absurd! those rocks inside the river will not form themselves overnight for you to mean that it existed later than other wonders. the amazon is really a wonder, but you cannot deny the fact that the underground river is a wonder in it's own rights. and you know what? you are making yourself laughable that the Filipino brand of pride and insecurity your laughing at.
I suggest that you learn how to read.
"your a moron" < excellent grammar you got there.
What’s even more insulting is that support for these so-called wonders is largely based on national loyalties. Most of the justification stems from the fact that it is a popularity contest and an added boost to tourism would always be good for the Philippines. I guess most Filipinos don’t really care that much as long as we end up with a globally-recognized tourist trap. Matters that concern nature need not be a competition.
I guess "your a moron" for not understanding what that paragraph meant.
I actually visited the website and took time to vote. I definitely agree that the voting is largely based on national loyalties – included in my top seven list is our very own Underground River, of course. But it really makes no sense to me – it was a really big joke.
There’s another poll on the same website asking, “Which country has the capability to lead the whole world?” Also included in their latest campaign is the search for the 7 beautiful extraordinary animals from all regions of the world. Isn’t it totally nonsense?
But I digress, I believe I understand your point in the 7 Wonders of Nature crap, but I really didn’t get it when you said: “When we look at natural wonders, it should be from the perspective as a child of the Earth – ……”
We are all human beings – countries are mere human constructs to set boundaries between all of us. The Underground River, the Amazon and other natural wonders should inspire awe from everyone as a child of the Earth – not just because that wonder just happened to be in your country.
oh, I see. Thanks. Cool posts, thought provoking. I'll be back.