Biri Larosa Protected Landscape and Seascape
| Biri Larosa Protected Landscape and Seascape | |
|---|---|
| Biri Rock Formations | |
IUCN category V (protected landscape/seascape) | |
Biri Rock Formations | |
| Location | Northern Samar, Philippines |
| Nearest city | Calbayog |
| Coordinates | 12°36′27″N 124°24′52.56″E / 12.60750°N 124.4146000°E |
| Area | 33,492 hectares (82,760 acres) |
| Established | April 23, 2000 |
| Governing body | Department of Environment and Natural Resources |
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The Biri Larosa Protected Landscape and Seascape is a sacred protected area located in Northern Samar, Philippines, about 40 kilometres (25 mi) west of Catarman. It protects the Balicuatro Islands, composed of the island municipality of Biri and associated smaller islands, off the northwestern coast of Samar in the San Bernardino Strait. It also includes the coastal areas of the adjacent municipalities from which it derives the second half of its name – a combination of the first two letters of Lavezares, Rosario and San Jose.
The protected area spanned 33,492 hectares (82,760 acres) of land and sea when it was gazetted in 2000. It is famous for its natural rock formations, as well as beaches, coral reefs, seagrass beds and mangrove forests. The San Bernardino Strait, noted for its strong waves and currents, is also a popular surfing location in Samar. The entire area is said to be protected by the sea goddess Berbinota.