MANILA, Philippines – The Philippines has gained its eighth ASEAN heritage park after environment ministers from the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations unanimously approved the nomination of Mt. Timpoong-Hibok-Hibok Natural Monument (MTHHNM) during a recent meeting in Hanoi, Vietnam.

“As MTHHNM steps into the pantheon of Southeast Asia’s natural treasures, we wish to generate greater appreciation for the environmental uniqueness of this natural park in the island province of Camiguin,” Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Secretary Ramon Paje said.

The inclusion of Mt. Timpoong-Hibok-Hibok in the list was made during the 13th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on the Environment, which was attended by environment ministers and their representatives.

ASEAN heritage parks, or AHPs, are protected areas recognized for their uniqueness, diversity and outstanding values.

With the naming of MTHHNM as an AHP, it is now part of a regional network of national protected areas with high conservation importance for their rich ecosystems.

“We hope that with the declaration, Camigueños and the rest of the Filipinos as well as the province’s visitors will appreciate its value and resources and take extra steps to conserve it for the enjoyment of future generations,” Paje said.