3 weeks ago
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Nestled in the Sierra Madre mountain range, Masungi Georeserve is an important watershed, a biodiversity hotspot, and a conservation role model in the Philippines.
At the forefront of preservation efforts are Ann and Billie Dumaliang, trustees of Masungi Georeserve, who have dedicated their lives to protecting this vital ecosystem.
This week, the Masungi Georeserve was named the 2024 national winner of the Energy Globe Award in the Philippines.
It was recognized for its geopark project, a reforestation effort that was launched in 2017.
Over 2,000 hectares out of its 3,000-hectare conservation area have already been restored with 68,000 native trees planted, and 100 rangers and 200 partners engaged.
In an interview with GMA News Online, Ann shared why Masungi must be conserved, the challenges it faces, and how ordinary individuals can help save the environment.
Masungi is a sanctuary for rare and endangered species
The Philippines is one of the 17 megadiverse countries in the world, home to countless species found nowhere else. Masungi provides sanctuary to many of these rare and endangered species, making it an irreplaceable part of global biodiversity.
"We have very few places left where they could find a sanctuary," Ann said.
A lifeline for Metro Manila's watershed
Masungi sits in the upper reaches of a watershed that directly impacts 20 million people in Metro Manila. The ecosystem it supports extends from Marikina and Pasig to Manila Bay, influencing water security, disaster resilience, and even economic stability.
"If we care about our communities, disaster resilience, and business, then it should be a top priority to save and restore these life-giving ecosystems," Ann said.
A model for climate action and restoration
The Philippines is one of the most at-risk countries in the world when it comes to climate change. Masungi is proof that conservation and restoration efforts can work.
"People think we have forever, but the climate crisis is here now," Ann warned. She said Masungi serves as a model for forest rehabilitation, showing that real solutions exist—if only they receive the support they deserve.
Despite its ecological significance, Masungi faces severe threats, mainly from illegal activities like land grabbing and illegal logging. These threats persist due to a lack of enforcement, oversight, and transparency.
"We've observed that the lack of monitoring and checks allows entrenched interests to thrive at the expense of the environment and the public," she said.
Last year, the Masungi Georeserve faced significant challenges in its conservation efforts, primarily due to disputes over land rights and management agreements.
One significant issue involved Vena Energy's proposed wind farm project in Rizal, which raised concerns about potential environmental impacts on the georeserve. In response, Vena Energy expressed a willingness to engage in open dialogue with stakeholders to address these concerns.
Also in 2024, there were reports of the Special Action Forces leaving the area due to downsizing, which raised concerns about the security and preservation of the georeserve.
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) then reiterated that the Masungi Georeserve is a protected forest reserve.
Ann said these challenges highlight the need for stronger governance, public vigilance, and consistent environmental policies.
"It's demoralizing when, despite the successes, the discussion gets redirected into stopping the project rather than supporting it," she added.
The Dumaliang sisters, Ann and Billie, said as individuals, we all have a role to play in conservation.
They suggested three key actions:
Stay vigilant and speak out
Follow Masungi's updates and amplify their message.
"Sometimes, all it takes is resharing a post, writing letters to leaders, or showing up for demonstrations," Ann explained, noting that every voice matters in keeping conservation efforts alive.
Build a relationship with nature
"Apathy comes from not having a relationship with the places we exist in," she said.
Understanding and appreciating our natural surroundings is the first step to protecting them.
Take action
– Conservation isn't limited to Masungi. Find out what needs protecting in your community and take action in ways that are sensible for your environment.
Despite the roadblocks, the Masungi conservation movement remains resilient. International recognition, such as the Energy Globe Award, helps bring global oversight and accountability.
"It connects us with allies who understand our cause and can help safeguard our progress," Ann said.
Ultimately, Masungi survives because of the collective efforts of its supporters.
"Where money can't counter vested interests, voices and numbers can," Ann said. — VBL, GMA Integrated News
