On the quiet edge of Brgy. Naungan lies an unusual blend of nature and community effort—Ormoc Mangroves Eco-Park. It’s a tranquil site where mudflats, birds, and paddle boats coexist with fishermen and volunteers, offering a modest yet rich experience for those seeking respite from the fast pace of city life.
Since opening in 2017, the eco-park has grown into a low-impact destination drawing both locals and domestic tourists. Managed by the Naungan San Juan Mangrove Planters Association (NSJMPA), the project has created jobs, encouraged environmental education, and revitalized interest in mangrove conservation.
Mental health professionals continue to highlight how time spent in natural environments can improve mood, reduce anxiety, and support emotional well-being. This park, with its peaceful kayaking paths and accessible fishing zones, allows visitors to reconnect with nature without traveling far or spending much. For many Leyte residents, this kind of experience—close to home but far from daily stress—can be a helpful remedy.
The park is reachable via a short tricycle ride from downtown Ormoc. For travelers coming from outside the city, daily ferries and fast crafts connect Ormoc Port with Cebu’s Pier 1, Pier 3, and Pier 4. Those arriving from Manila or Cebu by air may take a flight to Tacloban, followed by a three-hour land trip to Ormoc via bus or van.
For those seeking flexibility, private vehicles and local ride-hailing apps make navigation easier. Google Maps and Waze also provide updated directions to the eco-park.
More than a place to unwind, the mangrove site has become an anchor for sustainable employment. Fishermen who once relied solely on unpredictable catches now earn additional income by guiding kayak tours or preparing meals for visitors. Women in the community have organized food stalls serving fresh seafood and traditional Leyte dishes. Some locals are trained to assist in birdwatching and biodiversity education efforts.
The NSJMPA reports that dozens of families have directly benefited from the park’s operations. In peak seasons, temporary work becomes available, helping support livelihoods without putting further pressure on marine resources.
The mangroves themselves form a crucial buffer against storm surges and coastal erosion—both growing concerns in Eastern Visayas. Tour activities are regulated to minimize environmental impact, with clear signage and trash disposal points placed around the park. Tree-planting sessions are open to visitors, often arranged as part of group or school excursions.
“The focus has always been sustainability,” said a representative from the NSJMPA. “This is not just for today’s visitors but for future generations who will rely on healthy mangroves.”
Aside from kayaking and fishing, visitors may take part in mudflat walks or quiet birdwatching, depending on the season. Birds such as herons, egrets, and kingfishers are commonly spotted. Guides explain the function of each mangrove species and the threats posed by pollution and unsustainable fishing.
On weekends, the park becomes a gathering place for families, school groups, and casual travelers. There is no entrance fee, though donations are encouraged to help maintain the area. Visitors are also reminded to observe silence and avoid disturbing the ecosystem, especially during nesting seasons.
Ormoc’s mangrove eco-park is not a large-scale attraction. It doesn’t boast resorts or neon signage. Instead, it relies on small, steady contributions—from both nature and people—to create something lasting. In doing so, it offers a model for how rural tourism can be both restorative and responsible.
