The Lapus-Lapus–Macaoagao Local Conservation Area in Sagay City, Negros Occidental, has officially reopened following rehabilitation efforts after Typhoon Tino struck the city last November.
The typhoon caused significant damage to coastal facilities, prompting the community to rebuild the area from the ground up.
Rehabilitation was made possible through the support of Seacology, an international non-profit organization focused on protecting island habitats and cultures, which donated P600,000 for the Lapus-Lapus site, and P270,000 for the initial repair of Suyac Island Mangrove Eco-Park, bringing total assistance to P870,000.
Seacology funded the construction of the area’s watchtower, which remained standing even after the typhoon, and supported the restoration of the floating cottages, the city said.
Rebuilding began in December 2025 through combined funding assistance and community labor under a community-led conservation framework.
Seacology field representative Ferdie Marcelo emphasized that the grant requires a continued commitment from the community to protect the 364-hectare local conservation area. He noted with that the community remains dedicated to this goal.
The reopening Feb. 27 was attended by Councilor Benson Fernandez, chairperson of the Sangguniang Panlungsod Committee on Tourism, who recalled that after the typhoon aftermath, the city and stakeholders held meetings to find ways to rehabilitate the area before Seacology responded with support.
Also present at the reopening were City Environment and Natural Resources Office representative Jose Roberto Togle, State University of Northern Negros Fisheries faculty members Abegail Agelantaga-an, Shiena May Espenida, and Quiresa Mae Montano, Brgy. Bulanon chairperson Wilfredo Villacastin, Lapus-Lapus Association president Joefel Relos and members of the association.
Mayor Leo Rafael Cueva said the reopening reflects Sagay’s resilience and commitment to community-led environmental protection. “This reopening is a testament to the strength of our people and our shared responsibility to protect our coastal ecosystems while creating sustainable opportunities for our communities.”
The mayor added said the reopening strengthens Sagay’s position in advancing conservation-based tourism while ensuring long-term livelihood and ecosystem sustainability in its coastal communities.
The city also presented an SP resolution expressing gratitude to Seacology for its financial assistance and partnership in the rehabilitation efforts.
Marcelo, together with representatives of the City Engineering Office, also inspected the repair at Suyac Island Mangrove Ecopark. | Sagay PIO photos
