Lake Holon in South Cotabato, Philippines, to Close Temporarily for Annual Conservation Efforts, Visitors Urged to Adjust Travel Plans

Published on December 30, 2025

Tourists and outdoor enthusiasts planning visits to Lake Holon in South Cotabato should reschedule their trips, as the local government of Tboli has announced the temporary closure of this well-known ecotourism site. The shutdown, which will last from January 3 to March 3, 2026, is part of an annual conservation effort to preserve the area’s pristine beauty and biodiversity.

This seasonal closure is in accordance with Municipal Executive Order No. 63, Series 2025, issued by the Tboli Local Government. Every year, such measures are implemented to allow the area to recover from tourism pressures while also ensuring Lake Holon’s ecological integrity for future generations.

A Sacred and Pristine Destination

Lake Holon, often referred to as Lake Maughan, is a crater lake located within the Allah Valley Protected Landscape (AVPL), one of the Philippines’ most significant natural reserves. Nestled in the serene and untouched landscapes of South Cotabato, Lake Holon is celebrated not only for its crystal-clear waters but also for its rich cultural importance to the Indigenous Tboli people. To the Tboli community, the lake is a sacred ancestral site, further enhancing its cultural and historical value.

Known for being one of the cleanest inland bodies of water in the Philippines, Lake Holon has become a popular destination for both local and international tourists, particularly hikers and campers seeking a natural escape. Its remote and pristine setting, combined with its ecological value, makes it a premier destination for ecotourism.

However, despite its popularity, it is crucial to recognize that this natural gem is under considerable pressure from the growing number of visitors. To mitigate the negative impacts of human activity, the lake’s management authorities have opted for the temporary shutdown, which has been a long-standing practice.

Ecological Conservation as the Primary Goal

The decision to close Lake Holon for three months is based on the need to safeguard its fragile ecosystem. Over the years, human activities, such as excessive foot traffic, camping, and waste accumulation, have threatened the delicate balance of the lake’s environment. In response, the annual closure has been strategically planned to allow the lake’s ecosystem to regenerate naturally, promoting long-term sustainability.

The lake is situated within the jurisdiction of the Protected Area Management Board (PAMB), an authority tasked with overseeing the conservation and management policies of the AVPL. This body ensures that all activities within the protected area comply with national environmental standards, which is why the closure is considered an essential part of the ongoing efforts to preserve the region’s biodiversity.

As part of the protection strategy, local authorities also plan to conduct several activities during the closure period, including trail rehabilitation, ecological assessments, and a series of clean-up operations. These initiatives are designed to mitigate the environmental impact caused by visitors and to improve management strategies for when the site reopens to the public.

Compliance with National Conservation Frameworks

The closure is aligned with the principles set forth by national policies, particularly the Expanded National Integrated Protected Areas System (ENIPAS) Act. This law is focused on promoting the sustainable management and conservation of the country’s ecologically sensitive areas, which include Lake Holon. Under the Enipas Act, areas like Lake Holon are designated as protected sites, and their conservation is paramount for maintaining biodiversity and natural resources.

Additionally, Lake Holon’s closure is essential in the context of the Philippines’ broader commitment to sustainable ecotourism. The country has increasingly focused on balancing tourism development with environmental protection, ensuring that tourism is both beneficial to local communities and responsible toward the environment.

The Role of Tourism in the Local Economy

Lake Holon’s tourism sector plays a vital role in the local economy of Tboli. The community has benefited from the steady influx of visitors who come to explore the lake’s natural beauty and cultural significance. The temporary closure will undoubtedly have some economic implications, particularly for local tour operators, guides, and small businesses reliant on the influx of tourists during the peak season.

However, local officials have stressed that the closure is a necessary step for the long-term benefit of the tourism sector. The goal is to create a more sustainable model of tourism that allows future generations to enjoy the lake’s beauty while ensuring its protection. In the long run, these conservation measures will help maintain Lake Holon’s status as a top ecotourism destination, ensuring that it remains a source of pride for the local community.

Visitors Urged to Respect the Closure

The Tboli LGU has called on tourists, hikers, and tour operators to respect the temporary closure of Lake Holon. In a statement, they emphasized that the closure is a critical part of the community’s commitment to preserving the lake for future generations. Tourists are encouraged to plan alternative destinations during this period, ensuring that their travels do not negatively impact the conservation efforts.

The LGU also reminded visitors of the importance of responsible tourism practices. As part of its ecotourism initiative, Tboli has worked diligently to promote environmental education, urging tourists to be mindful of their environmental footprint and to engage in sustainable tourism practices.

Looking Ahead: A Sustainable Future for Lake Holon

While some may find the annual closure inconvenient, it is an important part of Lake Holon’s overall conservation strategy. The efforts to restore and maintain the lake’s ecological balance will help ensure that it remains a premier natural and cultural attraction for future generations.

In addition to its natural beauty, Lake Holon tells a compelling story of cultural preservation and environmental stewardship. Its status as a sacred site for the Tboli people, combined with its ecological value, makes it one of the Philippines’ leading examples of sustainable ecotourism.

The temporary closure demonstrates a proactive and responsible approach to managing ecotourism that benefits both the local community and the environment. As the Philippines develops into a leading ecotourism destination in Southeast Asia, the management of sites such as Lake Holon will serve as a model for balancing tourism and conservation.

Tourists who respect the closure help to protect this natural wonder for future generations, ensuring that Lake Holon remains a sought-after destination for many years.