Reese Barcelon
The deep blue lagoon also known in Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur had finally launched a soft reopening after the temporary closure in December 2016 and was extended until early March of this year.
According to the local government, it was done to continue rehabilitation, maintenance and improvement of facilities which was postponed due to the unpleasant weather over the past weeks. It is also a necessary action to save the river before it’s too late.
A previous scientific study conducted by Filipino Cave Divers (FCD) & field scientists showed that the area is in danger of degradation due to overcrowding/congestion caused by swimming activity.
Other tourists have been disappointed with the announcement given that many of them intend to visit the river over such period of time. However, they understood the good intention of the government and patiently waited until the regular operations resume.
Local and foreign tourists had the Enchanted River on their go-to lists because of its wonders. The river has crystal-clear water which made the river bed visible despite of its depth. Moreover, there are also a lot of legends that say different sorts of mythical creatures come to the lagoon every night to sing and play.
Some local fishermen also had said that there were fishes in the lagoon which is impossible to be caught for some reason.
On the day of the soft reopening, the local government of Hinatuan had announced a new rule: No Swimming Policy. The blue lagoon is now available only for viewing and picture taking.
However, tourists can still dip in the designated swimming area which is the downstream located ten meters away from the heart of the lagoon.
The genuine concern and the initiative by the local government of Hinatuan, along with the leadership of Mayor Shem G. Garay, are truly remarkable.
The measures done to preserve the beauty of nature will be helpful not only to the environment but also to the tourism of the Philippines.
