QUEZON CITY—The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region IX has proudly announced the designation of the Sibugay Wetland Nature Reserve (SWNR) as a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands. This recognition, unveiled during the 10th Asian Wetlands Symposium on November 25, 2024, at the Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria, marks a historic milestone as the first Ramsar Site in the Zamboanga Peninsula and the ninth in the Philippines.
Courtesy of DENR Zamboanga Peninsula.
The SWNR, encompassing an impressive 175,551.12 hectares across nine municipalities and 64 coastal barangays in Zamboanga Sibugay, also earns the distinction of being the largest Ramsar-recognized wetland in the country. Globally, it becomes the 2,552nd site added to the Ramsar List, reinforcing the Philippines’ commitment to preserving vital wetland ecosystems.
A Haven for Biodiversity
The SWNR serves as a critical habitat for a diverse array of wildlife, including migratory and endemic species. Among its notable avian inhabitants are 68 seabird species, such as the vulnerable Philippine duck (Anas luzonica), and globally threatened species like the great knot (Calidris tenuirostris), Far Eastern curlew (Numenius madagascariensis), and Chinese egret (Egretta eulophotes).
The reserve also shelters marine species, including the critically endangered hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) and the endangered green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas). Endangered bat species, such as the golden-crowned flying fox (Acerodon jubatus) and large flying fox (Pteropus vampyrus), further highlight the area’s ecological significance.
Collaborative Conservation Success
The Ramsar designation reflects years of collaborative conservation efforts. Key contributors include the Provincial Government of Zamboanga Sibugay, municipal and barangay leaders, and former and current DENR Region IX officials. The initiative also benefited from the support of environmental organizations such as the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity, Philippines Biodiversity Conservation Foundation, Inc., and RARE Philippines.
DENR Region IX Regional Executive Director Clyde Anthony Pascual expressed gratitude for the collective efforts, emphasizing the importance of sustaining the momentum to protect the wetland’s unique biodiversity.
Looking Ahead: A Landmark Celebration
The formal launch of the Sibugay Wetland Nature Reserve as a Ramsar Site, including the installation of the official Ramsar marker, is slated for 2025. The DENR is inviting the public to participate in the event, which aims to celebrate this milestone and promote awareness of wetland conservation.
“This recognition not only underscores the ecological importance of the Sibugay Wetland but also serves as a call to action for all stakeholders to ensure its long-term sustainability,” Pascual added.
As the largest Ramsar Site in the country, the Sibugay Wetland Nature Reserve stands as a beacon of hope for biodiversity conservation and a testament to the power of collaboration in protecting the environment.