Danao City in northern Cebu is putting the spotlight on one of its most treasured ecotourism sites as the Tawsan Mangrove Forest EcoPark marks its first year this Tourism Month. The eco-park, built on what was once a modest coastal stretch, now thrives as both a natural sanctuary and a community-driven livelihood hub.
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A Story of People and the Shore
Danao Vice Mayor Ivy Durano invited the public to see firsthand how the eco-park represents harmony between people and the environment.
“I invite everyone to come and experience the Tawsan Mangrove Forest EcoPark here in Danao City, a sanctuary where nature and community come together. By visiting, you are not only enjoying the beauty of our mangroves but also supporting the families and fisherfolk who make this place thrive,” Durano said.
She described Tawsan as more than a tourist spot, calling it a story of resilience and local identity. The name itself, derived from “Tao sa Hunasan,” or “people of the shore,” pays tribute to the early Danawanons who relied on fishing, seaweed gathering, and trading along the tidal flats.
Community-Led Conservation
Through partnerships between the city government, fisherfolk, and volunteers, the mangrove forest has been transformed into a thriving ecotourism site. Local families not only care for the mangroves but also serve as guides, hosts, and caretakers of the park.
“It is not only an eco-park but also a livelihood and pride project that empowers residents while protecting nature,” Durano shared.
The eco-park’s efforts have resonated with both locals and tourists. Between September 2024 and August 2025, over 11,500 people visited Tawsan, with thousands more joining related heritage tours, eco-trails, and cultural activities across Danao.
Nature, Culture, and Experience in One Place
Guests at the park can enjoy kayaking through mangrove channels, boat tours, and meals prepared at the eco center featuring homegrown delicacies. The park also offers scenic photo spots, guided nature walks, and eco-learning activities, making it a destination for both relaxation and education.
As Durano emphasized, Tawsan showcases how conservation and community can go hand in hand. Visitors not only explore nature but also help sustain the livelihoods of the people protecting it.
A Model for Eco-Tourism in Cebu
With the success of Tawsan, Danao is positioning itself as a key player in Cebu’s ecotourism scene. The project highlights how local communities can lead conservation efforts while boosting sustainable livelihoods.
“This Tourism Month, discover Danao’s pride in community-based ecotourism. Take a walk among the mangroves, listen to the sea breeze, and join the journey of conservation,” Durano said.
The Tawsan Mangrove Forest EcoPark is open daily from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m., with bookings available through the Danao City Tourism Facebook page.
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