Lake Balanan

Lake Balanan is a 25-hectare freshwater lake in Barangay Sandulot, Siaton, Negros Oriental, Philippines, about 45 kilometers south of Dumaguete City. Formed in 1925 when an earthquake-triggered landslide dammed the Balanan River, it is surrounded by forested mountains and dipterocarp trees. The hourglass-shaped lake is known for its calm waters, scenic mountain backdrop, and tranquil setting within a protected forest area.

Visitors can expect a calm, hourglass-shaped freshwater lake surrounded by forested mountains and lush vegetation. The area offers a quiet natural setting with clear waters, floating cottages and wooden boats for lake tours, viewpoints along the shore, and forested trails. Facilities are basic and rustic, focused on boating, picnicking and nature viewing, with no large commercial development.

Lake Balanan was formed on May 5, 1925, after a magnitude 6.8 earthquake triggered a massive landslide in the Balanan mountain range that dammed the Balanan River, creating a 25-hectare lake. The submerged former river valley is still visible in the lake's depth and shape.

The lake is an important natural landmark for the municipality of Siaton and surrounding communities in southern Negros Oriental, supporting local livelihoods through fishing, small-scale tourism and forest stewardship, and is valued as a community-managed ecotourism site.