CENTRAL VISAYAS-- The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)-Region VII, the Provincial Government of Bohol, the Local Government Unit of Panglao, and the Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) reopened Puntod Island, which is frequently referred to as Virgin Island, within the Panglao Island Protected Seascape (PIPS) on February 2, 2026 following the approval of PAMB Resolution No. 03, Series of 2026, lifting the temporary closure order that was imposed in 2024 due to reported incidents of coral vandalism at the Estaca snorkeling site in August 2024.
The re-opening of Virgin Island is contingent upon strict adherence to the DENR Ecotourism Guidelines, Marine Tourism Guidelines, and existing environmental laws on sustainable and responsive ecotourism, as emphasized by DENR-7.
"The regulated reopening serves as a testament to our commitment to environmental protection,” said Laudemir Salac, Regional Executive Director of DENR-7 OIC and the Chairperson of PAMB as he reiterated the continued importance of environmental protection.
Salac stated that to guarantee the long-term preservation of Virgin Island's marine resources, tourism activities must adhere to the ecotourism guidelines of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
Continuous monitoring is implemented to prevent environmental degradation, and clear regulations are enforced regarding visitor management, carrying capacity, waste management, and the protection of marine and coastal ecosystems, Salac said.
The temporary closure was implemented in response to reported incidents of coral vandalism at the Estaca snorkeling site in August 2024. In response, the DENR, in collaboration with the LGU-Panglao and partner agencies, immediately conducted investigations, identified the individuals involved, and initiated the filing of appropriate legal actions through the PIPS Protected Area Management Office (PAMO).
Key interventions were implemented during the closure period to enhance the safety of visitors and the protection of the site. The DENR CRERDEC and CDD-CMEMP with the PIPS PAMO conducted coral and site assessments, which included the installation of mooring buoys and navigational guides.
Additionally, the DENR -7 Team implemented the construction of a ticketing booth and the implementation of capacity-building activities, such as basic life support training, water safety training, and DOT accreditation for local boat operators.
The PAMB's decision to lift the temporary closure was predicated on the successful implementation of these interventions and the dedication of stakeholders to adhere to the Marine Tourism Guidelines that were adopted within the protected seascape.
Salac urged all stakeholders, including tour operators and visitors, to support environmental regulations and help maintain Virgin Island as a model of sustainable ecotourism in the PanglaoIsland Protected Seascape. (Photos: DENR-7)
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