THE Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has recently declared the Mt. Inayawan Range Natural Park in Nunungan, Lanao del Norte as the 53rd Heritage Park.
The official declaration occurred during the 64th Araw ng Lanao del Norte-Environment Day celebration on June 28, 2023.
The Mt. Inayawan Range Natural Park stands on more than 3,500-hectare land area and roughly 5,036 feet above sea level.
According to the Department of Tourism (DOT)-Northern Mindanao, the Mt. Inayawan Range Natural Park became a protected area under the goal of the ASEAN Center for Biodiversity to protect and preserve the ecosystems and its abundant and pristine flora and fauna.
Recognized as the 10th ASEAN Heritage Park in the Philippines, the declaration has brought pride not only to the people of Nunungan, Lanao del Norte, but also to the whole country.
The unveiling of the official landmark was led by Lanao del Norte Governor Imelda "Angging" Quibranza-Dimaporo, along with other key stakeholders.
Nunungan Mayor Marcos Mamay expressed his gratitude to the National Government, the provincial government and former Congressman Abdullah Dimaporo, whose efforts contributed to the approval of the application to become an ASEAN Heritage Site.
DOT-Northern Mindanao, for its part, is looking forward to more international recognition and protection for the region's natural wonders in the future. (SunStar Philippines)