“The Subaraw Biodiversity Festival is not just a celebration. It is a reminder that preserving nature is the responsibility of each one of us.”
This was emphasized by Mayor Lucilo R. Bayron during the official opening of the Subaraw Biodiversity Festival 2026 in Sitio Sabang, Barangay Cabayugan on November 5.
The mayor called on the residents to unite in protecting the biodiversity of Puerto Princesa to preserve it for future generations. He said that the community’s participation is necessary because the government alone cannot preserve nature.
“Let us work together, let us unite, let us preserve life,” Mayor Bayron said.
The celebration began with a Thanksgiving Mass at the Santuario de San Jose Marello Parish, followed by a Community Parade at Sabang Beach. The mayor welcomed many participants in the parade, which he described as the longest in its history.
“Life is precious in Puerto Princesa,” Mayor Bayron said.
He also emphasized the importance of thanking God for the blessings bestowed upon the city, including the Puerto Princesa Underground River (PPUR). He also thanked the residents who continue to support the city’s programs.
Mayor Bayron recalled the start of the celebration following the recognition of PPUR as one of the New7Wonders of Nature in 2011. He shared that the celebration is expanded as the Subaraw Biodiversity Festival to better promote the city’s natural wealth and encourage tourists.
At the same time, he urged everyone to protect the forests, seas, and other natural habitats to preserve the diverse life found in the city.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) MIMAROPA Officer-in-Charge Director Roberto Alabado III and biodiversity content creator Forester Jonathan “Ethan” Hernandez visited Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park (PPSRNP) to express their admiration for the city’s rich biodiversity. “Biodiversity is a tourism attraction,” said Alabado, while Hernandez emphasized that “Forest is a source of life.” Like Mayor Bayron’s call, they all encouraged everyone to protect the natural resources that attract tourists and provide water, food, and livelihoods to the communities.
The program also included the launch of the official website of PPSRNP, ppsrnp.ph, to help simplify its processes. Official promotional videos about the park’s management, biodiversity, and tourism were also released.
The event also featured the Headdress Competition with the theme “Glow-in-the-Dark Edition.”
Meanwhile, Mayor Bayron praised the management and staff of PPSRNP led by Protected Area Superintendent Atty. Christine N. Longno.
The mayor also invited residents of Sabang to participate and watch the upcoming activities in the town center to jointly strengthen the Subaraw and introduce Puerto Princesa’s natural resources to more visitors.
