About Katunggan It Ibajay
Katunggan It Ibajay is a community-managed mangrove eco-tourism park in Barangays Naisud and Bugtongbato, Ibajay, Aklan, Philippines. Covering about 28 hectares along the Ibajay River estuary, it features one of the largest contiguous mangrove forests in Aklan with diverse mangrove species, a wooden boardwalk, and observation towers. Established through reforestation and conservation efforts, it serves as an ecological reserve, educational site, and sustainable livelihood project for local communities.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a tranquil mangrove forest accessed via a long wooden boardwalk and viewing decks over tidal flats and estuary channels. The park features dense mangrove stands, nipa palms, birdlife and marine nursery areas, with interpretive signs and local guides explaining the ecosystem. Areas to explore include the boardwalk loop, observation tower, and river estuary edge. The setting is natural and quiet, focused on nature observation, photography and environmental education.
Key highlights
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28-hectare contiguous mangrove forest along Ibajay River estuary
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800-meter wooden boardwalk with viewing decks and observation tower
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Diverse mangrove species and associated bird and marine life
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Community-managed eco-tourism and conservation project
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Educational guided tours on mangrove ecology and rehabilitation
History of Katunggan It Ibajay
Developed from community-led mangrove reforestation initiatives in the late 1990s to early 2000s to rehabilitate abandoned and degraded fishpond areas along the Ibajay estuary, later formalized as an eco-tourism park under the local government and community organization to protect biodiversity
Culture & Context
Represents community-based conservation and sustainable livelihood in Aklan, providing income for local fisherfolk through eco-tourism and serving as an environmental education site promoting mangrove ecosystem awareness
Route
| By air |
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