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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider Visayas devider Danao City pushes mangrove forest ecopark

Danao City pushes mangrove forest ecopark

Published Sep 11, 2025 10:05 pm
THE Tawsan Mangrove Forest EcoPark in Danao City. (Danao City government)
THE Tawsan Mangrove Forest EcoPark in Danao City. (Danao City government)
CEBU CITY – In celebration of Tourism Month, the city of Danao in northern Cebu province is showcasing a natural attraction best known as a living sanctuary of resilience, conservation, and community spirit.
In time for its first anniversary celebration this month, the city government has invited the public to experience the Tawsan Mangrove Forest EcoPark.
“I invite everyone to come and experience the Tawsan Mangrove Forest EcoPark here in Danao City—a sanctuary where nature and community come together. By visiting, you are not only enjoying the beauty of our mangroves but also supporting the families and fisherfolk who make this place thrive,” said Danao Vice Mayor Ivy Durano.
Durano said that the ecopark is more than just a natural attraction. “Tawsan is our story of resilience, and we welcome you to be part of it,” she said.
From a simple coastal area, the place has been transformed into a thriving eco-park where mangroves stand tall as guardians of the sea, protecting the shoreline and sheltering marine life.
The name “Tawsan” is rooted in the phrase “Tao sa Hunasan,” which means “people of the shore.” It honors the early Danawanons who lived and worked in the tidal flats (hunasan)—fisherfolk, seaweed gatherers, and coastal traders—whose livelihood and way of life shaped the identity of the community.
Through Durano’s leadership, together with the Danao city government and the unwavering support of local communities, fisherfolk, and volunteers, Tawsan has become a symbol of unity, stewardship, and sustainable eco-tourism.
Durano shared that Tawsan is run by the community itself—families, fisherfolk, and locals who serve as guides, caretakers, and hosts.
“It is not only an eco-park but also a livelihood and pride project that empowers residents while protecting nature,” Durano said.
Figures from the city's tourism office showed that from Sept. 2024 to Aug. 2025, 11,513 guests visited the ecopark.
The heritage walk tour, “sikad” ride tour, and Tawsan combined attracted 68,844 guests.
The city’s eco-trail destinations drew 22,882 guests. The city also recorded 68,844 guests in the accommodation-based arrivals.
At the ecopark, guests can enjoy mangrove “bangka” tour, kayaking, dining at the nature center featuring pre-ordered local delicacies, scenic spots photography, and eco-learning.
Business hours are from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Durano said that bookings may be done through the Danao City Tourism Facebook page.
“This Tourism Month, discover Danao’s pride in community-based eco-tourism. Take a walk among the mangroves, listen to the sea breeze, and join the journey of conservation,” Durano said.

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Danao City Cebu Tawsan Mangrove Forest EcoPark Tourist attraction Tourism Month
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