The iconic Biri Rock formations in Northern Samar have been officially recognized as a National Geological Monument by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources–National Committee on Geological Sciences (DENR-NCGS).
UNESCO National Commission of the Philippines secretary general Dr. Ivan Anthony Henares said the designation celebrates the site’s geological significance and could bring inclusive economic benefits to local communities.
Biri Rocks comprises seven islets—Magasang, Magsapad, Macadlao, Puhunan, Bel-at, Caranas, and Inanahawan—featuring tilted sedimentary rock formations sculpted by tectonic and wave processes over 15 to 20 million years.
The rocks also contain rare volcanic components such as phonolite and analcime clasts, offering insights into the magmatic history of Northern Samar, according to experts from the NCGS.
With the new status, Biri Rocks joins six other nationally recognized geological monuments and is now being proposed for designation as a UNESCO Global Geopark.