Around 30 local media practitioners from the province and from Zamboanga City attended the said activity.  The tour aimed to provide an opportunity for local media practitioners in the province to witness the significant conservation efforts of the national government through DENR, in collaboration with the local government unit and the community.

The media tour commenced with a brief orientation on tourism guidelines where participants were oriented on the various amenities and outdoor activities they can enjoy in MTPL.

DENR-9 Regional Executive Director Arturo E. Fadriquela extended his message through Regional Strategic Communications and Initiatives Group (RSCIG) Chief, Roservirico A. Tan.

“As our partners in development and progress, the media has a very powerful voice and influence among their followers, your presence here shall validate the progress and success that we have gained since the inception of this program,” he said.

Meanwhile, Forester Brendelyn Madarang, Chief of Protected Area Management and Biodiversity Conservation Section (PAMBCS) of DENR-9 shared the critical importance of biodiversity and its preservation. Ms. Madarang highlighted the urgency of protecting and sustaining the planet’s rich and diverse ecosystems.

After the opening program, participants were able to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Mt. Timolan and experienced the bird’s eye view of the heart-shaped Lake Maragang as they walked on the trail up to the view deck. Participants were also able to enjoy outdoor activities such as kayaking and swimming along the crystal clear waters of lake Maragang.

As part of the tour, media practitioners were given the opportunity to participate actively in a tree-planting activity. A total of 120 Tanguile seedlings were planted along the designated reforestation zones in MTPL. The activity was a significant component of the two-day media tour, which exemplified the commitment of the participants to the preservation of MTPL.