In a world where environmental crises loom large, Sagay City is charting a hopeful path—its 50-year conservation journey has earned global recognition, securing a spot among the prestigious Top 100 Green Destination Stories for 2024, a press release from Sagay PIO said.
This honor marks the city’s second time in this exclusive list, underscoring the power of persistence, collaboration, and community-led initiatives in this Visayan sea’s precious ecosystems.
ILLEGAL FISHERS TO SEA GUARDIANS
The Sagay Marine Reserve (SMR), a vast 32,000-hectare protected seascape, stands as a testament to decades of dedicated conservation efforts. What makes Sagay’s story truly remarkable is not just the preservation of its marine biodiversity, but how the city transformed illegal fishers into the protectors of the very waters they once exploited.
Titled “Illegal Fishers Turned Sea Guardians: A Ground-Up Eco-Tourism Initiative to Sustain Sagay’s Protected Seascape,” the story celebrates this inspiring transformation. Born out of the visionary leadership of the late Governor Alfredo G. Marañon, Jr., the project began in the 1970s when he convinced illegal fishers that sustainable practices were the only way to secure their future livelihoods. His tireless work led to the enactment of two national laws protecting the SMR, turning poachers into passionate stewards of the sea.
Today, Sagay’s success offers a beacon of hope—not only for the Philippines but for communities worldwide grappling with environmental degradation. The conservation work has not only rehabilitated the marine environment but also sparked a thriving eco-tourism industry, generating livelihoods for local communities while protecting biodiversity.
A CALL FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS
For Mayor Narciso Javelosa, Jr. and Vice Mayor Leo Rafael Cueva, the recognition is a fitting tribute to Governor Freddie’s enduring legacy. His work has made Sagay a symbol of sustainable development and responsible tourism, and his vision lives on through youth conservation programs aimed at cultivating future environmental leaders.
“We are proud to be part of the Green Destinations Top 100 Stories once again, as it highlights our commitment to the environment,” said Javelosa. “This global recognition reinforces our belief that sustainability is the only way forward for the tourism industry.”
Cueva echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of involving young people in conservation efforts. “We are building on Governor Freddie’s legacy, ensuring that the next generation continues to protect and preserve the Sagay Marine Reserve.”
GLOBAL STAGE FOR LOCAL HEROES
The Society for Sustainable Tourism – SST led by president & CEO adviser Susan Santos de Cardenas, played a pivotal role in helping Sagay’s story reach the international stage. “Sagay is a shining example of what can be achieved when a community comes together for a shared vision of sustainability,” Cardenas said. “Their journey from illegal fishing to eco-tourism and conservation can inspire destinations around the world. Sagay City’s inclusion serves as a powerful reminder: the fight for environmental sustainability is far from over, but it’s a battle we can win—if we work together,” she added.
Sagay’s story is a clarion call to other destinations. If a small coastal city in the Philippines can turn the tide on environmental degradation through community engagement and long-term vision, so can others. This isn’t just about being on a list; it’s about making lasting, meaningful change.*