THERE’s an online voting for the world’s “Seven New Wonders of Nature”

No less than President Arroyo has exhorted Filipinos here and abroad to support thru their online votes at least three Philippine natural wonders which are the Tubbataha Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and popular diving site that has been acknowledged globally for its unmatched biodiversity; Chocolate Hills of Bohol, famous for its dome-shaped grass covered limestone hills that turn brown in summer when the hills dry up and the Underground River in Puerto Princesa City in Palawan.

In the current Top 77 Live Rankings of the worldwide online poll, Tubbataha ranks seventh, Choco Hills ninth and the Underground River, 20th.

What the Pangasinenses would give to have their very own Hundred Islands in Alaminos –as natural as natural can be – included in the list of top natural sites to stir a sense of pride!

With the city government led by Mayor Hernani Braganza having its own well-designed website, and in the midst of promoting their unique scenic spot, we see no reason why our famous Islands should not be entered in the worldwide online Search (at www.newsevenwonders.com) to vie for the honor – and probably get GMA’s own unequivocal endorsement.

Without belittling the claim to fame of the top three Philippine spots in the search which are admittedly all breathtaking, we believe the Hundred Islands should also be there fighting for that special spot for its sheer natural beauty and pristine charm.

Nothing, you know, beats being acknowledged and recognized in the world stage even if, as it happens, even our own Department of Tourism hardly finds it worthwhile to include the Islands in its map for Most Recommended Spots.