See Photos of the Site in Masungi the BuCor Wants to Build On

On the morning of February 16, 2023, forest defenders at Masungi Georeserve received the shock of their lives when around 20 men and five vehicles pulled over at the entrance of the site and demanded they be granted access to conduct an “ocular inspection” of the alleged “relocation site of the New Bilibid Prison”.

“They bear a newly minted title over 270 hectares of the Lot 10 property in the name of BuCor. The remaining 30 hectares of Lot 10 were reportedly titled simultaneously in the name of the DENR. Lot 10 and the 300 hectares in question comprise the Masungi Georeserve,” Masungi wrote in a statement sent to Esquire Philippines.

According to Masungi, the site where Lot 10 stands is practically “unbuildable.” To give you a perspective of just what the site looks like, Masungi sent several photos showing the breathtaking landscapes, flora, and fauna of Lot 10. 

Photo by Masungi Georeserve.

Photo by Masungi Georeserve.

Photo by Masungi Georeserve.

Photo by Masungi Georeserve.

The critically endangered Jade Vine or JC's Vine, found in Masungi Georeserve

Photo by Masungi Georeserve.

Photo by Masungi Georeserve.

Many species of little-known plants such as this one are at risk of disappearing because of threats to Masungi Georeserve's existence.

Photo by Masungi Georeserve.

An elusive Indigo-Banded Philippine Dwarf Kingfisher makes a rare appearance in Masungi Georeserve's Lot 10.

Photo by Masungi Georeserve.

An ultra-rare Emerald Swallowtail and its luminous wing details. This butterfly has been elusive to documentation since it constantly moves from place to place. Here, its color-changing band appears to be green. However, its colors are actually brought out by microstructures that refract light and give rise to blue and yellow reflections. When these colors mix, the band is perceived to be green.

Photo by Masungi Georeserve.

Photo by Masungi Georeserve.

Photo by Masungi Georeserve.

Photo by Masungi Georeserve.

Photo by Masungi Georeserve.

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Why Are Powerful People Seeking to Exploit Masungi Georeserve?

Land grabbers and quarrying companies are bent on exploiting the land under the forests of Masungi Georeserve, threatening to destroy the habitat of tens of thousands of plants and animals that seek refuge in this sanctuary. 

Throughout its existence, the reserve has ensured the survival of over 400 species of flora and fauna, protected 60-million-year-old limestone formations, planted 40,000 indigenous trees, and employed over 100 locals who are now helping protect this piece of paradise. 

Masungi Georeserve is an internationally awarded conservation project that is just a day trip away from Manila. It is the last protective shield of Metro Manila from flash floods, typhoons, and climate change.