City officials are urging the Cagayan de Oro City Government to take over the Gardens of Malasag Eco-Tourism Village to prevent its possible closure and safeguard the jobs of many indigenous workers. The park located in Cugman, currently managed by the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), is facing financial difficulties that threaten its operations. With the management agreement set to end on December 3, 2025, the city says it is prepared to assume control and revitalize the attraction, which has been a popular nature and cultural destination since 1991.
The Cagayan de Oro City Council recently passed a resolution authorizing City Mayor Rolando “Klarex” Uy to negotiate with the DENR and TIEZA for City Hall to take over the Garden of Malasag Eco-Tourism Village.
The move follows concerns raised by Councilor Joyleen Mercedes Balaba about the possible closure of the eco-park due to TIEZA’s financial problems. TIEZA, which manages the site and rents the land from DENR, can no longer afford the rental fees, putting the facility at risk of shutting down.
Balaba warned that the closure could affect 46 TIEZA employees. The City Council’s tourism committee will hold a hearing to explore ways to keep the facility running.
Below are photos of the eco-tourism village.
photos by TIEZA – Gardens of Malasag Eco-Tourism Village
