The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)–Region 10 has announced that Mount Balatukan Range Natural Park in Misamis Oriental is being considered for inclusion as an ASEAN Heritage Park. This was disclosed by Protected Area Management Superintendent Ivy V. Saclote during a courtesy visit to Governor Juliette Uy on February 16, 2026. Representatives from the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity (ACB), including international visitors from Bangkok, Thailand, were also present for the site’s validation process. If the park passes validation, it will become the first ASEAN Heritage Park in the province.
Saclote highlighted the park’s critical role in protecting surrounding towns—Balingasag, Lagonglong, Medina, Claveria, and Gingoog City—from natural disasters, as well as safeguarding vital water sources such as the Mt. Balatukan River.
If approved, the designation would bring both regional and international recognition, showcasing the park’s rich biodiversity, including unique flora and fauna found only in Mt. Balatukan.
Currently, Region 10 has four ASEAN Heritage Parks: Mt. Kitanglad (Bukidnon), Mt. Inayawan Range Natural Park (Lanao del Norte), Mt. Hibok-Hibok (Camiguin), and Mt. Malindang Range Natural Park (Misamis Occidental), out of 14 nationwide.
with info and photos by MisOr Info Office
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