The Climate Change Commission (CCC) announced that Apo Reef Natural Park, Turtle Islands, and Balinsasayao Twin Lakes have been recognized as ASEAN Heritage Parks. These additions bring the total number of Philippine ASEAN Heritage Parks to 14. Apo Reef, the second-largest contiguous coral reef globally, is renowned for its biodiversity. The Turtle Islands are a critical nesting ground for Green Sea Turtles. Balinsasayao Twin Lakes, with its mountainous landscape and diverse ecosystems, provides clean water and supports a wide range of wildlife.
The Apo Reef Natural Park , the largest contiguous coral reef system in the Philippines and second largest in the world, stands out for its exceptional marine biodiversity. Photo courtesy of the ASEAN Center for Biodiversity The Climate Change Commission welcomed the inclusion of three Philippine natural wonders― Apo Reef Natural Park , Turtle Islands and Balinsasayao Twin Lakes―among the five newest ASEAN Heritage Parks.
The latest milestone, announced recently by the ASEAN Center for Biodiversity. brings the total number of Philippine ASEAN Heritage Parks to 14, with unique habitats that serve as sanctuaries for endangered species and vital resources for local communities.Apo Reef Natural Park, the largest contiguous coral reef system in the Philippines and the second-biggest in the world, is home to over 482 fish species and 63 coral genera, along with rare marine invertebrates and iconic species, such as dugongs and whale sharks. The Turtle Islands Wildlife Sanctuary, recognized as the only major nesting habitat of the Green Sea Turtle in member countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, and the 11th largest nesting site globally, plays a pivotal role in conserving this endangered species. Its critical importance for biodiversity conservation was recognized through various national and international legal frameworks, ensuring its long-term protection. Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park, with its mountainous landscape and diverse ecosystems, is a vital source of clean water and supports a wide range of wildlife, making it essential to both biodiversity and local livelihoods. Ocean ecosystems, such as coral reefs and mangrove forests, play a crucial role in mitigating climate change. They absorb vast amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, acting as natural carbon sinks. Healthy marine environments also help regulate global temperatures and protect coastal communities from extreme weather events. “We must integrate climate change considerations into the management of these protected areas. By prioritizing sustainable practices, such as reducing pollution and overfishing, we can enhance the resilience of our marine ecosystems and safeguard their contributions to climate change mitigation,” CCC vice Cairperson and executive director Robert E.A. Borje said. The CCC highlighted the connection between the newly recognized ASEAN Heritage Parks and the two recently designated Ramsar Wetlands of International Importance: Sibugay Wetland Nature Reserve and Del Carmen Mangrove Reserve. These Ramsar sites, like the ASEAN Heritage Parks, play critical roles in climate change mitigation and adaptation by providing vital ecosystem services, such as flood control and biodiversity protection. “Their protection and sustainable management are key priorities as we implement the National Adaptation Plan and our Nationally Determined Contribution Implementation Plan,” Borje said. Amid the escalating impacts of climate change, these protected areas contribute to climate adaptation and mitigation efforts. The CCC remains committed to supporting the protection and sustainable management of these areas in collaboration with local communities, stakeholders and government agencies. The inclusion of these parks in the ASEAN Heritage Parks network reaffirms the Philippines’ leadership in biodiversity conservation and climate action within the ASEAN region. The CCC urged continued cooperation and investment in safeguarding critical ecosystems for future generations.
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