13/03/2026
Nestled along the coastline of Brgy. Hinactacan in La Paz, Iloilo City, lies a vital environmental gem. Spanning over 35 hectares, the Hinactacan Eco-Park is a thriving mangrove ecosystem declared a bird sanctuary by the Iloilo City Government. Often called the "last remaining mangrove area" in the city, it serves as a lush sanctuary for both endemic and migratory birds.
The park is an ecological powerhouse. Mangroves act as natural barriers, protecting the community from storm surges and erosion. They improve water quality, serve as nurseries for marine life, and act as critical carbon sinks—absorbing emissions and cooling the local environment. In short, the eco-park is a natural defense system and a lifeline for both biodiversity and the community.
While the city government laid the groundwork for the park, its long-term survival depends on its most direct stakeholders: the local community. This is why supporting the Punong Barangay and the Barangay Officials is absolutely essential.
Local leaders are the front-line defenders of this ecosystem. They possess the on-the-ground knowledge to monitor threats like illegal fishing or encroachment. They are best positioned to mobilize residents for clean-ups and mangrove planting. Most importantly, they can champion sustainable eco-tourism that provides local livelihoods, giving the community a direct, personal stake in conservation.
Supporting the Barangay Captain empowers the very people whose lives are intertwined with the park. It ensures that conservation is not a top-down mandate, but a shared, community-driven mission. This local stewardship is the key to preserving the park's legacy—a legacy that promises a more resilient, biodiverse, and beautiful Iloilo for generations to come.
⚠️: Hinactacan Eco-Park is a protected area. All drone operations must be conducted in compliance with safety regulations and require prior coordination with local authorities. Visitors are advised to stop by the Hinactacan Barangay Hall first before entering the area.