Lake Holon—enshrined within the Allah Valley Protected Landscape—has long been celebrated as one of Mindanao’s crown jewels. Its glass-calm waters, lush mountain backdrop, and deep cultural significance to the Tboli people make it a top ecotourism destination for adventurers seeking peace and nature’s embrace. But behind its breathtaking beauty lies a fragile ecosystem—and one that must be cared for with intention.
In a move aligned with national environmental laws and local conservation standards, the Local Government Unit of Tboli has ordered the temporary closure of Lake Holon from January 3 to March 2026 through Municipal Executive Order No. 63, Series of 2025. The decision is not new nor unfamiliar; it is a long-standing annual conservation practice rooted in the principles of ecological protection, responsible tourism, and community stewardship.
The lake falls under the governance of the Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) as part of the Expanded National Integrated Protected Areas System (ENIPAS). And as LGU Tboli pursues its application for a Special Use Agreement in Protected Area (SAPA), the closure period becomes even more crucial—a chance for authorities and indigenous communities to reinforce a shared responsibility in managing the land sustainably.
Why a seasonal closure matters
Every year, thousands of hikers and tourists flock to Lake Holon. The influx, while beneficial to the local economy, places stress on the ecosystem—affecting water quality, wildlife habitats, and trail conditions. By limiting human activity, nature is granted the time it needs to breathe and recover.
This quiet period allows:
• Regeneration of vegetation and wildlife surrounding the lake
• Protection of water purity against pollution and overuse
• Assessment and improvement of site management and visitor safety
• Reinforcement of cultural and sacred practices of the Tboli community
Ultimately, it is a gesture of respect—both to the land and to the indigenous guardians who have protected it for generations.
A call for collective stewardship
Lake Holon is not just a tourist attraction—it is a living heritage, a sanctuary of biodiversity, and a symbol of the enduring relationship between people and nature. Ensuring that future generations can still marvel at its splendor requires sacrifice and shared commitment today.
Visitors and supporters are therefore urged to honor the temporary closure, support sustainable tourism programs, and champion environmental policies that protect the lake and its surrounding forests.
As the season of rest begins, Lake Holon reminds us of a simple truth: nature’s beauty is a privilege—one we must earn through care, responsibility, and reverence.
When the lake reopens, it will once again welcome wanderers. But until then, we allow it to heal—because protecting paradise is the only way to ensure it never fades.