Negros Occidental Gov. Bong Lacson received the Special Patent Title of Mambukal Resort and Wildlife Sanctuary at a turnover ceremony held at the Capitol Social Hall, this morning.
DENR Region 6 Assistant Regional Director for Technical Services, Forester Edgardo Rostata, together with Engr. Joan Nathaniel Gerangaya, Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office OIC turned over the original certificate of title to Gov. Lacson.
The governor said that the transfer represents a significant advancement in the Provincial Government’s initiatives to preserve the environment, promote sustainable tourism, and enhance community involvement.
“With this turnover of the Special Patent Title, we reaffirm our commitment to uphold Mambukal as a model and representation of responsible stewardship and a source of pride for the present and future generations of Negrenses,” he said.
He also said that in a few years, the provincial government will be celebrating the 100th anniversary of Mambukal, a milestone that traces back to the construction of the Ishiwata Bathhouse in 1927.
Mambukal was declared a town site on June 22, 1957, by Republic Act No. 1964, known as the ‘Act of Establishing the Mambukal Town Site for Health Center and Recreation Resort Purposes.’
Moreover, the Local Government Code of 1991 empowers LGUs to establish organizations for effective development plan implementation and revenue generation through local taxes and fees.