TIGBAO, Zamboanga del Sur — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region 9 has announced the temporary closure of Lake Maragang Rainforest Park, effective Sunday, May 10, 2026. The closure follows a minor landslide that obstructed the primary access road and trekking trail leading to the popular ecotourism site.
The park, situated within the Mt. Timolan Protected Landscape, will remain inaccessible to the public until further notice to allow for clearing operations and a comprehensive safety assessment.
Heavy rainfall in the region is believed to have triggered the earth movement along the rugged terrain of the protected area.
- Closure Scope: The shutdown covers the main entrance and all trails leading to the heart-shaped crater lake.
- Ongoing Operations: DENR personnel and local responders are currently on-site conducting clearing works. Authorities emphasized that while the landslide was “minor,” the risk of secondary slides remains a concern until the slopes are stabilized.
- Official Advisory: “Safety remains our top priority,” the DENR 9 advisory stated. “We ask for your understanding and cooperation… please avoid the area until rehabilitation work is completed.”
Lake Maragang is a premier destination for hikers and nature lovers in Mindanao, often reached via a two-hour trek or a “habal-habal” motorcycle ride from Barangay Limas.
- Canceled Bookings: Local tour guides and eco-park staff have been instructed to halt all scheduled treks and overnight camping activities.
- Alternative Sites: Tourists already in the Pagadian City or Tigbao area are encouraged to explore other managed sites within Zamboanga del Sur that are not affected by the weather-related closures.
- Future Reopening: An official update regarding the park’s reopening will be posted on the DENR Region 9 and the park’s official social media pages once the “all-clear” is given by geologists.
Known as the “hidden gem of Tigbao,” Lake Maragang is famous for its unique geography and biodiversity.
- The Crater Lake: A 20-hectare, heart-shaped lake located 1,177 meters above sea level.
- Biodiversity Hub: The park is a key habitat for endemic species, including the Philippine Eagle and the Philippine Tarsier.
- Activities: Before the closure, the park offered bird watching, river trekking, camping, and panoramic views from the Handurawan View Deck.
Local residents and regular visitors are urged to monitor Pagasa weather bulletins, as the current rainy season continues to increase the risk of landslides in the mountainous regions of Zamboanga Peninsula.