Guimaras islands declared natural park under new law
By Rjay Zuriaga Castor
A group of ecologically rich islands in Nueva Valencia, Guimaras, has been officially declared a natural park under a new law aimed at strengthening marine biodiversity protection and supporting community-based conservation efforts.
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. signed Republic Act No. 12225 on July 9, converting the Taklong Island National Marine Reserve (TINMR) into the Taklong and Tando Group of Islands Natural Park.
The law places the area under the National Integrated Protected Areas System, shielding it from extractive and environmentally harmful activities.
The landmark legislation was authored by Guimaras Gov. Ma. Lucille Ledesma Nava during her term as the province’s lone district representative.
“It has been a long journey, and fortunately, we achieved what we have aimed for,” Nava said.
“Through this law, we can better help protect our marine biodiversity and improve the livelihoods of the community,” she added.
The natural park designation grants the area legal protection from resource extraction, with conservation focused on its natural and scenic values for present and future generations.
Under the law, a Protected Area Management Board will be created to oversee the park’s governance.
The board will include representatives from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, local government units, legislators, indigenous peoples, and non-government organizations.
To support park operations and community initiatives, trust funds will be created to finance environmental protection and sustainable livelihood projects.
TINMR was originally declared a protected area in February 1990 by then-President Corazon Aquino to safeguard its marine ecosystem.
It comprises Taklong Island as the main island, along with Tandog Island and 37 smaller islets.
The reserve spans 1,143.45 hectares and includes vital ecosystems such as coral reefs, mangroves, seagrass beds, and algal beds.
The area is also known for its unique rock formations, white sand beaches, sandbars, and scenic coves — making it a key destination for eco-tourism.
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