By BILLIE DUMALIANG

In the vibrant expanse of the Philippines, a vast treasure lies hidden in plain sight — over 100,000 hectares of a lush national park and wildlife sanctuary spanning parts of Rizal, Quezon, and other neighboring provinces. Interestingly, this was an initiative by President Ferdinand Marcos in the '70s through Presidential Proclamation 1636.

This proclamation boldly declared the area to be “withdrawn from sale, settlement, exploration, or exploitation,” with the intention of preserving it as a "National Park, Wildlife Sanctuary, and Game Preserve." Further, it explicitly prohibited activities detrimental to the sanctuary, such as hunting, wounding, or killing of wild animals; destruction of vegetation, or causing disturbances to the wildlife habitats.

Despite its immense potential, many remain unaware of this invaluable park, a verdant oasis a stone's throw from Metro Manila. In the backdrop of thickening smog reported in recent days, this park offers more than just scenic beauty; it promises cleaner air and a healthier environment. A green sanctuary of this scale, located tantalizingly close to Metro Manila, can serve as a haven for its residents, granting a respite from urban challenges.

Presidential Proclamation 1636 encompasses ecological treasures like the Masungi Georeserve and portions of the Upper Marikina Watershed. These zones are not just ecological wonders, but essential life sources for an array of species, including us.

'It's pivotal for the President to uphold the essence of Proclamation 1636. Stopping further encroachments and eradicating harmful activities within the park should be top priorities. After all, such protective measures align with the Philippine Development Plan's vision.'

However, this green sanctuary has faced numerous challenges. The vigilance of the Upper Marikina Coalition, an alliance of over 80 groups, was crucial when quarrying agreements surfaced within the park's boundaries. Though the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) said that it had ordered the cancellation of these agreements in September 2022, the shadow of vested interests persists, evidenced by continued hostilities against environmental defenders, often backed by influential political figures.

Further exacerbating the situation, unauthorized resorts and private structures have proliferated within the watershed, violating the sanctuary's sanctity and its intended purpose. Meanwhile, the scrutiny faced by environment defenders has been disproportionate, often diverting attention from these blatant transgressions.

In the light of these challenges, it's pivotal for the President to uphold the essence of Proclamation 1636. Stopping further encroachments and eradicating harmful activities within the park should be top priorities. After all, such protective measures align with the Philippine Development Plan's vision.

The dream? To see Philippine national parks rival the best in the world in terms of care, preservation, and sustainable tourism through effective partnerships with civil society.

As advocates of nature and protectors of heritage, let us rally behind this cause, ensuring that this "unnamed" park finds its rightful name and place in the heart of the nation. The time is ripe to recognize and celebrate this green jewel as a lasting legacy for all Filipinos.