MANILA. International actor and environmentalist Leonardo DiCaprio took to Facebook yesterday to highlight the critical situation facing the Masungi Georeserve, a lush montane rainforest just outside the bustling capital of Manila.
Masungi, once devastated by illegal deforestation in the late 1990s, has become a symbol of successful conservation efforts led by local communities. Through these initiatives, the forest began regenerating, wildlife populations slowly increased, and more locals became actively involved in safeguarding this precious ecosystem.
However, this success story is now under threat. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is considering canceling the agreement that protects Masungi from land-grabbing activities. This move could jeopardize decades of conservation work, leaving the area vulnerable to mining, logging, and illegal developments.
In his post, DiCaprio emphasized the importance of continued protection for Masungi, urging President Bongbong Marcos to intervene. “Conservation successes like Masungi serve as a reminder that the Philippines can become a leader in sustainability, eco-tourism, biodiversity protection, and climate action,” he stated.
Local rangers and conservationists are rallying support, calling the public to join their plea to safeguard this vital ecosystem. To support the campaign, visit: bit.ly/protectmasungi.
The fate of Masungi Georeserve hangs in the balance, highlighting the ongoing struggle between development and environmental preservation in the Philippines.
There has been no response from Malacañang regarding this matter.
Paraluman P. Funtanilla
Paraluman P. Funtanilla is Tutubi News Magazine's Marketing Specialist and is a Contributing Editor. She finished her degree in Communication Arts in De La Salle Lipa. She has worked as a Digital Marketer for start-up businesses and small business spaces for the past two years. She has earned certificates from Coursera on Brand Management: Aligning Business Brand and Behavior and Viral Marketing and How to Craft Contagious Content. She also worked with Asia Express Romania TV Show.
