The Tomongtong Mangrove Eco-Trail, the most sought-after tourist destination in E.B. Magalona, Negros Occidental, is now on its way to fifth year of existence, with more added attractions.
Among them are the 360 degrees three-storey viewing deck, where visitors may have a glimpse of the entire mangrove conservation area, and the Tinagong Paraiso, an expansion of eco trail, where the mangrove nursery is located.
Visitors are also allowed to have a picnic under a mangrove area at the Tinagong Paraiso.
The Tomongtong Mangrove Eco-Trail has a bamboo pathway, surrounded by mature mangroves leading visitors to the shoreline. Here, they can relax, commune with nature, and enjoy an abundance of seafoods.
From its original area of about 15 hectares in 2019, the mangrove area of Tomongtong has expanded to 20 hectares, after the reforestation activities started by the municipal government of E.B. Magalona, initially tapping the locals.
Only two hectares are occupied by the eco-trail, Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Officer Jojo Vargas said.
The mangroves serve as natural habitat for birds, assorted fishes, and crabs. The famous blue crabs, talaba (oyster), fishes, and other seafoods remain a come-on for guests and visitors, because of their freshness.
Since it opened more than four years ago, the influx of tourists and guests has always been steadily increasing, tourism officer Ma. Teresa Alvarez said.
For Negros Occidental 3rd District Rep. Jose Francisco Benitez, a visit to Tomongtong Eco-Trail “is a journey worth taking, and the empowered community will surely guide you through”.
Don’t miss out on their delicious seafood offerings while actively contributing to the environment, through coastal cleanup and mangrove planting activities. It’s more than a visit—it’s an immersive experience that makes a positive impact, Benitez said.
From a garbage dumpsite to a tourist site, was how Rotary District Gov. Mate Espina, whose organization was among those that participated in mangrove-planting activities, described the 20-hectare lush mangrove forest of Tomongtong barangay in E.B. Magalona.
The community created hope for a better environment and livelihood, and they got what they wanted by planting mangroves, and doing coastal clean-up activities. | GPB
