Bongsanglay Natural Park

Bongsanglay Natural Park is a protected mangrove forest reserve located in Barangay Royroy, Batuan, on Ticao Island, Masbate Province, Philippines. Established initially as a mangrove swamp forest reserve in 1981 and later proclaimed a Natural Park in 2000 under the National Integrated Protected Areas System, it covers approximately 244 hectares of mangrove forest, tidal flats and coastal waters. It is notable for its biodiversity, bird habitat and well-preserved mangrove ecosystem.

Visitors can expect a coastal mangrove forest with dense mangrove stands, tidal channels and mudflats. The park features a wooden boardwalk and viewing areas that allow walking through the mangrove forest, observing flora and fauna, birdwatching and photography. The setting is natural and quiet, surrounded by coastal waters and fishing communities, with opportunities for guided nature walks and sightseeing of the mangrove ecosystem.

Initially established as Bongsanglay Mangrove Swamp Forest Reserve by Proclamation No. 2152 on December 29, 1981, and later reclassified and proclaimed as Bongsanglay Natural Park by Proclamation No. 319 on December 29, 2000 under the National Integrated Protected Areas System (NIPAS) Act.

The mangrove forest supports the livelihood of local fishing communities in Batuan and serves as a natural coastal protection and fisheries nursery, reflecting the community's traditional dependence on mangrove resources.