Marcos Signs Laws to Protect Key Philippine Environmental Treasures
President Marcos Jr. signs crucial legislation protecting Mount Sawtooth and Panaon Island, marking a significant step in Philippine environmental conservation and biodiversity protection efforts.
Aerial view of Panaon Island's pristine coral reefs and Mount Sawtooth's forest cover, newly designated protected areas in the Philippines
In a significant move for environmental conservation, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has signed two landmark laws declaring Mount Sawtooth in Tarlac and Panaon Island's waters in Southern Leyte as protected areas, reinforcing the administration's commitment to environmental stewardship.
Mount Sawtooth: A Haven for Endemic Species
The Mount Sawtooth Protected Landscape, established through Republic Act No. 12237, encompasses nearly 11,000 hectares across Mayantoc and San Jose, Tarlac. This initiative builds upon the government's broader environmental protection efforts, similar to how the administration has shown commitment to protecting maritime resources in other regions.
Critical Biodiversity Protection
The protected area hosts several endemic species, including:
- Mottle-winged flying fox
- Orange-fingered myotis
- Rhynchomys tapulao
- Globally threatened Golden-capped fruit bat
- Northern Rufous Hornbill
Panaon Island: A Marine Conservation Milestone
The declaration of Panaon Island Protected Seascape through RA No. 12238 represents another crucial step in marine conservation, complementing the nation's broader maritime protection initiatives. The island, home to 56,000 residents, serves as a vital ecosystem for endangered species and supports local livelihoods.
Environmental and Economic Benefits
Southern Leyte Representative Roger Mercado emphasized that this protection aligns with both environmental and economic goals, much like how local governments are taking decisive action to balance development with conservation.
Global Conservation Significance
Panaon Island's designation as one of the 50 priority reefs globally positions the Philippines as a leader in meeting the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework's 30×30 commitments, aiming to protect 30% of the world's ecosystems by 2030.
Manny Pacquiao
Independent Filipino journalist covering democracy, civil rights, and government accountability across Southeast Asia.