“MGFI’s role as the caretaker of Masungi must reply to questions: One, what are they really undertaking as part of conservation programs in the area? Two, how would they justify the high fees they charge users of their facilities?”There’s nearby Rizal province, for instance, that’s fast developing into a popular tourist destination with its mountainous terrain, spectacular overlooking views and resorts with natural spring water.
Masungi says it is a sanctuary where guests would be able to commune with Nature, and reenergize themselves while doing so.Masungi has been declared a locally-protected area, providing the Tanay local government and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources authority to oversee the protection and conservation of the karst and the various flora and fauna within its vicinity.
It profits from the use of the land through ecotourism, events, accommodations, dining, and other activities which include prenuptial photoshoots, meeting spaces for events and seminars and weddings ranging from P20,000 to P160,000.The ecotourism operations of Masungi Georeserve appear lucrative given their price range.
But the DENR says none of these facilities had the requisite clearances and permits from the Protected Area Management Board or local governments. Masungi’s development plans, according to the DENR, are not aligned with the PAMB’s Management Plan and Management Zones as required by law and therefore causes conflicts in the supervision and management of the area by both the PAMB and MGFI.
Later, in another resolution, the Tanay SB ordered the temporary suspension in the issuance of any permit to BSDC due to the absence of requisite safety measures.