A group of ecologically rich islands in Nueva Valencia, Guimaras, has been officially declared a natural park under a new law aimed at strengthening marine biodiversity protection and supporting community-based conservation efforts. President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. signed Republic Act No. 12225 on July 9, converting the Taklong Island National Marine Reserve (TINMR) into the Taklong and Tando Group of Islands Natural Park. The law places the area under the National Integrated Protected Areas System, shielding it from extractive and environmentally harmful activities.

Castor, R. Z. (2025, July 22). Guimaras islands declared natural park under new law. DailyGuardian, pp. 1, 11.