Salinas Natural Monument

Salinas Natural Monument is a protected natural monument in Barangay Salinas, Bambang, Nueva Vizcaya, Philippines. Covering about 6,675 hectares of forest and watershed, it is notable for its rare natural salt springs and white travertine mound formed by saline deposits. Established as a forest reserve in 1912 and proclaimed a natural monument in 2000 under the NIPAS Act, it protects unique geological features, biodiversity, and an important watershed in the Cagayan Valley region.

Visitors can expect a forested protected landscape centered on natural salt springs and a distinctive white travertine mound formed by mineral deposits. The area consists of secondary forest, watershed areas, and open viewpoints around the saline springs. Visitors can explore trails and viewing areas, observe the geological formations, and experience a quiet natural environment focused on nature observation and educational appreciation of the unique saline ecosystem.

Originally established as Salinas Forest Reserve in 1912, the area was proclaimed as Salinas Natural Monument on April 23, 2000 through Proclamation No. 275 under the National Integrated Protected Areas System (NIPAS) Act to protect its unique salt springs, travertine deposits and watershed forest. It was later retained as a protected area under the Expanded NIPAS Act of 2018.

The natural salt springs have been traditionally used by local communities for salt production, from which the Spanish-derived name Salinas is taken. The site is valued as a natural heritage and watershed resource supporting the communities of Bambang and surrounding areas in Nueva Vizcaya.