• RICHARD T. CABALLERO JR.
The ongoing rehabilitation of the trail at the seven falls of the Mambukal Resort and Wildlife Sanctuary in Murcia is scheduled for completion in the first quarter of the year, according to Provincial Administrator Atty. Rayfrando Diaz II.
Diaz disclosed that construction of the trail to the first up to the sixth falls has been completed. However, the launching point leading to the first falls is still under construction after a small landslide occurred.
“We have completed the trail from the sixth to the first falls, but the launching point to the first falls experienced a landslide,” he said.
He emphasized that the province is currently troubleshooting the issue and plans to install slope protection and steel bridges to prevent future hazards.
Diaz further shared that several residents of Barangay Minoyan, where Mambukal is located, have expressed interest in becoming part of the resort’s trail guides.
The province has already met with these individuals, and they will undergo training in first aid, basic life support, and environmental conservation conducted by the Provincial Environment Management Office (PEMO) to ensure they are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills for trail guiding.
“We already have our trail guides, and the trail is nearly finished. The trail will have an entrance fee, as stipulated in our ordinance. The fees collected will support the community members who will serve as guides for tourists visiting our falls,” Diaz emphasized.
Community involvement is a central aspect of this program. Residents of Minoyan will be prioritized for employment in farming, distribution, and environmental monitoring as “Lawin Patrollers.”
These patrollers will help protect local ecosystems, with immediate legal and police action taken against any reported intrusions within Mt. Kanlaon Natural Park (MKNP).*
