• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The Kabankalan-Himamaylan-Ilog Integrated Coastal Area Management Council (KAHIL- ICAMC), chaired by Himamaylan Mayor Raymund Tongson received the award as “Most Outstanding Marine Protected Areas (MPA) and Networks” during the Para El Mar 2023 awarding ceremony held on September 28 in Mandaue City, Cebu.
Tongson also cited the support of Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson, Vice Gov. Jeffrey Ferrer and alliance members, including Kabankalan City Mayor Benjie Miranda, Ilog Mayor Paul Alvarez, partner organizations and stakeholders, who played an integral role in winning the award.
The Para El Mar, which translates to “for the sea”, is hosted by the Marine Protected Area (MPA) Support Network (MSN), which aims to showcase the country’s best performing MPAs and provide a venue for top-performing MPAs to share experiences in the effective management and science-based governance of crucial marine habitats.
The KAHIL-ICAMC Council also extended its congratulations to fellow contender, the Calamian Island Group, MPA Network of Coron, Palawan, which secured the first runner-up position in the same category, emphasizing their shared commitment to preserving marine ecosystems.
As we celebrate this significant accomplishment, KAHIL-ICAMC, Tongson said the council remains resolute in their mission and vision for a sustainable coastal environment, as they pledged to continue their dedicated work with unwavering faith and determination.
Tongson was also joined by Himamaylan City Councilor Sam Belarga, City Environment and Natural Resources Officer ICAMC Executive Director Armela Estrosas Waldato, Kabankalan City Planning and Development Officer Susan Casalem, City Agriculturist Ricky Muscosa, Ilog Municipal Planning and Development Officer Juliet Grace Tingson, Rusiel Escanilla and Daylin San Jose, who both represented the Provincial Environment and Management Office, during the awarding rites.
This momentous victory underscores the significance of collaborative conservation efforts and serves as an inspiration for coastal communities and environmental advocates throughout the nation, he stressed.*