21/12/2025
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LOOK: TWIN LAKES IN NEGROS ORIENTAL JOIN ASEAN’S HERITAGE PARK NETWORK
The Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park (BTLNP) in Negros Oriental has officially joined the ASEAN Heritage Parks (AHP) network, making it the first park in the Visayas to receive this prestigious recognition. A marker unveiling recently confirmed its status as a “protected area with high conservation importance,” according to the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity (ACB).
Spanning over 8,000 hectares, BTLNP is home to diverse wildlife and plant species, including 325 ferns, 237 trees, 27 mammals, and 209 resident and migratory birds. Notably, 14 bird species are globally threatened, such as the critically endangered Negros bleeding-heart pigeon and the Visayan wrinkled hornbill. Other endemic species include the Visayan tarictic hornbill, Visayan spotted deer, Visayan warty pig, red lauan tree, and Philippine rose grape.
“This natural park exemplifies the importance of our protected areas in safeguarding watersheds, conserving habitats, and enhancing climate resilience,” said Jennelyn Ramos, senior ecosystems management specialist of DENR’s Biodiversity Management Bureau (BMB).
Negros Oriental Governor Manuel “Chaco” Sagarbarria highlighted that the recognition reflects the dedication of environmental stewards, partner agencies, academic institutions, and community groups. “May it serve as a symbol of unity, shared purpose, and unwavering commitment, and may it remind us that the natural beauty and rich biodiversity of the Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park are not merely sights to admire but legacies to protect,” he said.
Rico Mier, president of the Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Farmers Association, emphasized their continued role in conservation. “Ang matabang pod namo is monitoring activity para mapalig-on nato, maprotektahan nato ang atoang mga kalasangan ug atong mga kahayupan sakop sa protected area. Nagkahiusa pod mi alang pod sa pagpa-improve sa mga policy, guidelines dinhing dapita,” Mier said.
BTLNP also provides vital watershed services, supplying water to over 500,000 residents in nearby towns. Ecotourism activities such as boating, trekking, and bird-watching are managed by the authorized local association, promoting both conservation and sustainable tourism.
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This story originally appeared on PIA Negros Oriental. Graphics and edits by Destination PH.
