HAGIMIT Falls in the Island Garden City of Samal in Davao del Norte has been temporarily closed to the public to undergo rehabilitation and conservation.

Igacos Mayor Al David Uy issued Executive Order (EO) No. 64, which orders the tourist site's temporary closure, on October 28, 2022.

According to the mayor, aside from its being one of the prime tourist destinations of the city, Hagimit is one of the sources of water supply on the island.

"There is a need to protect and conserve Hagimit Falls being one of the sources of water supply in the Island Garden City of Samal," Uy said.

To ensure its further protection, the mayor said the local government ordered its entire closure, while rehabilitation and consequently the implementation of its management conservation are in the works.

The EO states that all activities/events and business operations are suspended effective immediately until further notice.

All individuals are prohibited from entering the premises and other resources within Hagimit.

The City Public Order and Safety Office (CPOSO), in coordination with the Philippine National Police (PNP), Samal Task Force and other departments of the city government will assist the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) in the implementation and monitoring of the area. RGL