Marcos declares Masaraga protected gem of biodiversity

By Rhaydz B. Barcia

LEGAZPI CITY --- President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has officially declared Mount Masaraga, a sharp-topped inactive stratovolcano in Ligao City, Albay province, as a protected area.

Standing at 1,328 meters (4,357 feet) above sea level and blanketed in lush, dense forest, Mount Masaraga is now recognized as the Mount Masaraga Protected Landscape — the newest addition to Albay’s biodiversity treasures.

Mount Masaraga, which is also home to the world’s largest flower and other critically threatened species, hides a seasonal waterfall known as the “hidden falls,” which appears during heavy rainfall.

Yesterday, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) regional office in Bicol reaffirmed the declaration, hailing Mount Masaraga as the newest gem in Albay’s ecological crown.

Rising proudly in the heart of the province, Mount Masaraga has long stood as a silent sentinel — majestic, mysterious, and teeming with life. With the signing of Republic Act No. 12227 on July 9, President Marcos Jr. officially placed the mountain and its surrounding lands under state protection, as part of the Mount Masaraga Protected Landscape.

The announcement was made by DENR-Bicol Regional Director Francisco Milla Jr. Spanning the municipalities of Polangui and Oas and the cities of Ligao and Tabaco, this newly protected area is not only a haven of natural beauty but also a vital bastion of biodiversity, Milla said.

“Mount Masaraga is more than just a picturesque peak. It is a thriving ecosystem, home to an astonishing array of flora and fauna, many of which are endemic. In fact, it is considered a critical watershed for the Bicol River Basin, serving as a vital source of freshwater for surrounding communities and ecosystems,” the DENR added.

According to the DENR, a total of 173 plant species have been recorded on Mount Masaraga. The Moraceae family is the most represented, with 15 species, while Ficus stands out as the most dominant genus, with 12 documented species.

Among this rich plant diversity, 17 species are classified as vulnerable, eight as other threatened species, five as endangered, and four as critically endangered. Perhaps the most iconic among them is the Rafflesia — the world’s largest flower — known both for its striking appearance and rarity.

Its presence is a testament to the mountain’s ecological richness. The biodiversity of Mount Masaraga extends far beyond its flora. The area also hosts 26 species of birds, some of which may be migratory or endemic to the Philippines, making it a potential birdwatcher’s paradise. In addition, 11 species of herpetofauna (amphibians and reptiles) and two species of non-volant mammals have been recorded in the area. These figures highlight the mountain’s role as an essential wildlife corridor and genetic reservoir for the region.

“With its designation as a Protected Landscape, Mount Masaraga now falls under the coverage of the National Integrated Protected Areas System (NIPAS),” the DENR said.

This status ensures legal safeguards against exploitation, deforestation, and unsustainable development. It also paves the way for community-based conservation efforts, eco-tourism, scientific research, and educational programs — all aimed at preserving the mountain’s natural wealth for future generations.

“Mount Masaraga is a sacred landscape, teeming with life and worthy of stewardship. Its protection marks a significant step forward in the fight against biodiversity loss and climate change, while aligning environmental conservation with social and economic development,” the DENR added.

It may be recalled that former Albay lawmaker Fernando T. Cabredo, of the third district, authored House Bill (HB) 1405, which sought to establish Mount Masaraga as a protected area due to its rich biological diversity. Cabredo emphasized that Mount Masaraga plays a significant role as a critical watershed for the Bicol River Basin, supporting agriculture and providing clean and sustainable water resources.

“Mount Masaraga’s forested ridges represent a true triumph for nature and for future generations, who will continue to draw life and wonder from its gifts,” Cabredo said.

“HB 1405, which was approved on February 15, 2023, will help preserve Mount Masaraga’s natural beauty, flora, and fauna for generations of Bicolanos, long after our time. It is a gift to the younger generations.”

Mount Masaraga is currently one of the watershed forest reserves under the Protected Area Management Board (MMWR-PAMB). It is not only one of Albay’s famous natural landmarks but also one of Bicol’s best-kept hiking secrets. The province is also home to two other iconic mountains: the very active Mount Mayon and Mount Malinao, a potentially active stratovolcano that spans Albay and Camarines Sur, and hosts the Tiwi Geothermal Power Plant.