By: Women’s Fitness Asia
Nestled in the serene mountains of Rizal, just a short drive from Metro Manila, lies the Masungi Georeserve. This breathtaking sanctuary, with its towering limestone formations, lush greenery, and tranquil trails, is a testament to nature’s majesty. However, beneath its beauty lies a story of resilience, courage, and a relentless fight against the forces of exploitation. At the heart of this battle are two extraordinary sisters, Ann and Billie Dumaliang, who have become the vanguards of conservation in the Philippines.
A Vision for Sustainability
Spanning nearly 3,000 hectares, Masungi is more than just a reserve; it is a living, breathing symbol of what determined individuals can achieve in the face of adversity. Home to limestone formations over 60 million years old and a diverse array of flora and fauna, Masungi stands as a beacon of hope for biodiversity in a country plagued by deforestation and land degradation.
When Ann and Billie took on the responsibility of reviving Masungi, their vision was clear: to create a model of sustainable conservation where nature and communities coexist harmoniously. “Our goal is to make sure that it is protected for the years to come,” Ann shares. “It’s about creating a future where communities thrive alongside the environment.”
This vision is rooted in balancing ecological preservation with sustainable tourism. The Dumaliang sisters have meticulously designed guided experiences that allow visitors to marvel at the reserve’s beauty while learning about its importance. “Tourism should never overwhelm conservation,” Ann explains. “It should exist to enhance it, focusing on quality over quantity.”
Encouraging Communities
Central to Masungi’s conservation efforts is its collaboration with local communities, who serve as the first line of defense against illegal activities such as logging, mining, and land-grabbing. Billie emphasizes, “Conservation needs to be a collective effort. Local communities must be empowered, educated, and involved.”
The sisters have not only raised environmental awareness but also provided training to locals, enabling them to protect their rights and the reserve. In 2023, this empowerment proved critical when drilling activities disguised as a research project threatened Masungi. With the help of the community, the project was halted, safeguarding the area’s integrity.
Overcoming Resistance
The Dumaliang sisters’ journey has been fraught with challenges, from armed confrontations with land grabbers to enduring political pressures. In 2021, their resolve was tested when armed men attacked Masungi’s caretakers, injuring two park rangers. Yet, these threats have only strengthened their determination.
“Conservation is about confronting threats,” Billie notes. “There will always be tension, but you overcome it through creativity, resilience, and unwavering determination.”
Ann echoes this sentiment, stating, “If you give up, we lose. But as long as we’re still fighting, there’s hope.”
Inspiring Action
The sisters believe that every individual can contribute to conservation, no matter how small the gesture. Visitors to Masungi are encouraged to become ambassadors for the environment, spreading awareness and supporting the reserve’s efforts. The Dumaliangs have also fostered partnerships with government agencies, NGOs, and the private sector, recognizing the crucial role of collective action in achieving sustainable conservation.
Corporate involvement, they assert, is particularly impactful. “Businesses have the power to support movements like ours and lead the charge for environmental conservation,” Ann says.
A Legacy of Good
The Dumaliang sisters’ work at Masungi is more than a success story; it is a blueprint for sustainable conservation. By integrating ecotourism, community engagement, and strategic partnerships, they have demonstrated that progress and preservation can go hand in hand.
“Leaders and pioneers are needed to take risks,” Billie concludes. “It’s our responsibility to build power, protect ourselves, and inspire others.”
Through their unwavering dedication, Ann and Billie Dumaliang have not only preserved a natural treasure but have also ignited a movement that calls on everyone to protect the environment and work toward a sustainable future. Their journey reminds us that courage, collaboration, and compassion can transform the world—one protected piece of paradise at a time.
