Paoay: A massive tree planting project of native species is in the works to enhance the biodiversity of the Paoay Lake National Park, a protected landscape in the province of Ilocos Norte. Spanning around 340 hectares, the park encompasses a freshwater lake surrounded by diverse habitats that support a wide array of flora and fauna, including endemic bird species, aquatic life, and native vegetation.
According to Philippines News Agency, Rhoel Marcelo, an ecosystem management specialist at the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in Ilocos Norte, stated that about 5,000 native tree seedlings are expected to be planted in the next two years. This initiative aims to restore degraded habitats, stabilize soil and water systems, and create microhabitats for wildlife in designated areas. Marcelo emphasized that the “Pag-asang Luntian para sa Paoay Lake” project presents a significant opportunity to enhance the biodiversity, ecological integrity, and overall health of the Paoay Lake National Park.
Marcelo further explained that by planting native trees, establishing an arboretum, and engaging the local community, the project will contribute to a more sustainable and resilient ecosystem for future generations. He envisions this project as a model for similar conservation initiatives across the Philippines. Trees play a crucial role in supporting local biodiversity, improving water quality by filtering runoff, reducing sedimentation, and acting as natural buffers against climate extremes.
Among the native trees being considered for planting around the lake are narra, molave, supa, palosapis, dungon, kamagog, white lauan, yakal, bitaog, banaba, ipil, and guijo. This initiative follows the signing of Republic Act 12230 by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on August 4, 2025, which declared the Paoay Lake Protected Landscape for better management and appropriate funding.
With this new legislation, a Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) was created. It is composed of the DENR regional executive director, governor, senators who are registered residents of Ilocos Norte, the representative of the congressional district where the Paoay Lake Protected Landscape is located, and the Paoay mayor, among others.
