The Provincial Government of Northern Samar was awarded the Grand Prize in the ATOP PEARL AWARDS 2025 for Best Practices in Community-Based Tourism – Provincial Level with our entry:

“LALAGUNA MANGROVE ECO-PARK: A Journey of Transformation, Hope, and Sustainability.”

This recognition is a celebration of collaboration, resilience, and shared dreams.

Our deepest gratitude to Governor Harris for supporting this initiative in our bid for the prestigious ATOP Pearl Awards.

A heartfelt thanks to Congressman Edwin Ongchuan, whose leadership during his term as Governor laid the foundation for what Lalaguna Mangrove Eco Park has become today.

We acknowledge the Municipality of Lavezares for the valuable partnership and for sharing the vision of a progressive Lalaguna.

Special thanks to Mayor Ed Saludaga for his steadfast support, and to former Mayor Tingting Saludaga, who, together with the Provincial Government, began this remarkable journey.

We also commend the Municipal Tourism Office, led by Jasmine Balag-Abueza, for their tireless work in promoting and sustaining the eco park’s development.

Our sincere appreciation goes to the various agencies that have, in one way or another, contributed to Lalaguna’s progress, including:

Department of Tourism Region 8 (DOT8), under the leadership of RD Karen Tiopes

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) – Provincial Office Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) University of the Philippines

Your collective efforts have made the Lalaguna Mangrove Eco Park a shining example of community-based, sustainable tourism.

SP Committee Chair on Tourism, Board Member Ara Gillamac-Layug represented Governor Ongchuan in receiving the award yesterday, October 2, 2025 at Baguio City, with Provincial Tourism Officer Josette Doctor.

This award is dedicated to the resilient and committed community of Lalaguna, whose unwavering dedication to improving their lives through the management and operation of the Lalaguna Mangrove Eco Park has been truly inspiring.

It is also for the entire Nortehanon community—a shining proof that when people, leaders, and communities work hand in hand, we can create lasting legacies of transformation, hope, and sustainability. (Provincial Tourism Office)