In the observance of the Lenten season and to ensure full protection and conservation of flora and fauna in Cagbalete Island, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (DENR-CENRO) Tayabas has deployed its personnel to prevent potential resource exploitation and safeguard the resources of the said protected area.

The Cagbalete Island is covered under Presidential Proclamation 2152, thus included as an initial component of the Republic Act 7586 or the National Integrated Protected Areas System Act of 1992/RA 11038, or the Expanded NIPAS of 2018. It is known for its beautiful white sand beaches and sandbars, scenic mangrove formations, and is home to various fauna species. Some of the flora observed within the island are Bakauan Babae and Bakauan Lalaki, Tabigi, Bangkal, Batino, Anabiong, and Dita, while the observed faunas include Intermediate Egret, Philippine Duck, Grey Heron, Asian Emerald Dove, Cattle Egret, Black-naped Oriole, Eurasian Tree Sparrow, White-collared Kingfisher, and Yellow-vented Bulbul, to name a few. The locals also said that several monkeys are roaming the island.

Having such bountiful natural resources, Cagbalete Island is also home to local and international tourists, especially during the Lenten season. Hence, CENRO Tayabas personnel proactively integrate with the communities to help remind visitors/tourists of various Environment and Natural Resources policies. Likewise, CENRO Tayabas personnel reminded the visitors/tourists regarding their garbage to be properly disposed of, if possible, to be brought with them as they go back to their places. The said personnel have also conducted a brief Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) campaign about RA 9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000, and RA 9147 or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act of 2001, and distributed IEC materials in the form of bookmarks.

With these efforts, the visitors/tourists, barangay Local Government Unit (LGU), Tourism Office, LGU of Mauban Municipality, and vendors within the island committed their solidarity for the protection of Cagbalete Island, and no one is apprehended violating ENR Laws.###

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Parent Category: News & Events
Category: Photo Releases
Published: 08 May 2023