The Philippines has strengthened its position as a biodiversity hub with the inclusion of three more natural parks in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Heritage Parks list, the Department of Tourism (DOT) said.

The newly designated ASEAN Heritage Parks—Apo Reef Natural Park in Occidental Mindoro, Turtle Islands Wildlife Sanctuary in Tawi-Tawi, and Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park in Negros Oriental—bring the total to 14.

These parks join an exclusive group of ecologically significant areas, highlighting the region’s commitment to environmental conservation and biodiversity protection.

The DOT emphasized their ecological and tourism value, noting that these parks serve as critical habitats for endangered and rare species.

Apo Reef Natural Park is home to the endangered Hawksbill Turtle and Whale Shark, while Turtle Islands Wildlife Sanctuary hosts the primary nesting ground for Green Sea Turtles in Southeast Asia.

Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park shelters rare species, including the Visayan warty pig and the Philippine tube-nosed fruit bat.

DOT Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco credited the recognition to the collaborative efforts of government agencies, local communities, and conservation advocates.

She said the achievement underscores the balance between tourism development and environmental protection, ensuring these parks remain preserved and accessible to visitors.

“This achievement encourages us to further align environmental conservation with tourism initiatives, making these parks not only ecological sanctuaries but also globally recognized destinations,” Frasco said.

She also highlighted how the recognition boosts the Philippines’ status as a premier travel destination and underscores the importance of preserving the nation’s natural treasures for future generations.

Among the ASEAN Heritage Parks, Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park and Mt. Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Additionally, Apo Reef Natural Park and Turtle Islands Wildlife Sanctuary are listed on UNESCO’s tentative list for potential inclusion.

Other ASEAN Heritage Parks in the Philippines include Agusan Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary, Mount Makiling Forest Reserve, Mt. Apo Natural Park, Mt. Inayawan Range Natural Park, Mt. Kitanglad Range Natural Park, Mt. Malindang Range Natural Park, Mts. Iglit and Baco National Park, Mts. Timpoong and Hibok-Hibok Natural Monument, Pasonanca Natural Park, and Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park.