Masungi project wins social innovation award

MANILA, Philippines — The Masungi Geopark Project (MGP) has won the biosphere sustainability award at the 2024 Asia Pacific Social Innovation Partnership Awards (APSIPA) organized by the Ministry of Economic Affairs of Taiwan.

Justine Bual of the Masungi Georeserve Foundation received the award during a ceremony held in Nantou, Taiwan on Saturday.

The biosphere sustainability award, emblematic of environmental stewardship and sustainability, acknowledges exceptional social innovation partnerships that advocate environmental conservation.

It underscores the connection between a thriving natural environment and the well-being of the humanity.

The project encompasses 2,700 hectares of property in Baras, Rizal.

Funds for the MGP are self-generated from low-volume sustainable geotourism, which aims to augment government efforts for climate action and ecosystem restoration.

“Despite 25 years of relentless efforts to rejuvenate this vital ecosystem, the surrounding mountains remain imperiled by widespread deforestation, quarrying interests and inadequate environmental enforcement, compounded by systemic and political challenges for conservation,” the MGP said in a statement.

The Upper Marikina Watershed, which comprises about half of the Masungi project, is being eyed by several entities for development, which may endanger water supply and displace residents in surrounding areas.

“Amid plans by Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga to nullify an agreement that created the MGP, the triumph at the APSIPA underscored the project’s role in advancing environmental sustainability and catalyzing positive change. It inspired communities worldwide to embrace a harmonious coexistence with nature,” the MGP said.