It was raining hard while we were crossing Davao Gulf on the barge to Samal Island. What was the Full Moon With the Bats going to offer? But as soon as we parked the van at the Monfort Bat Sanctuary, it was fair weather, though a bit cloudy.

A short program was held early afternoon with Norma Monfort giving the Opening Remarks and a Powerpoint Presentation about the Year of the Bat 2012.

Cerfticates of Appreciation were awarded for supporters coming from various sectors showing their love for the environment, especially for the fruit bats who dwell in the Monfort Sanctuary.

A colorful part of the afternoon’s events was the Unravelling of Banners to kick-off  the monthly Full Moon with the Bats event.

Retired PAWB Chair, Nilo Rivera delivered a short message, while a rationale was given by Ms. Norma about Full Moon with Bats and how this flagship activity will affect MCPark Operations with the monthly full moon activitity.

As we watched the bats emerge from the first of five caves, a  Reggae band could be heard playing on the beachfront where campers were enjoying the evening by the shore under the coconut trees. Fire Dancers entertained the crowd down by the beach to enjoy the moonlit night in the Monfort Bat Sanctuary, celebrating the Year of the Bat 2012.