Pinalawig ang temporary closure ng Mt. Apo Natural Park (MANP) dahil sa nagpapatuloy na El Niño phenomenon.

Matatandaang pansamantalang isinara ang lahat ng trails at access points sa MANP para sa trekking at camping activities mula Marso 20 hanggang Marso 30, 2024 dahil sa mga epekto ng El Niño.

Samantala, sa isang bagong advisory ng Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)-Davao, inihayag nitong matapos ang pagsisiyasat ng Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) ng MANP, napagdesisyunan nilang palawigin ang naturang temporary closure hanggang sa Abril 30, 2024.

“This measure is in response to the ongoing El Niño phenomenon, which has led to a prolonged dry spell and increased the risk of wildfires, threatening the park's diverse ecosystems and the safety of visitors,” anang DENR.

“The PAMB is dedicated to safeguarding the rich biodiversity of Mt. Apo and ensuring the well-being of all visitors. As such, we consider this temporary closure essential for the protection of the park and its inhabitants,” dagdag nito.

Pinakiusapan naman ng pamunuan ang lahat ng mga trekker at mountaineer na nagplano ng excursions sa closure period na makipag-ugnayan sa kani-kanilang mga organizer upang muling iiskedyul ang kanilang pag-akyat.

“The board will remain vigilant, continuously monitoring the situation, and will provide timely updates regarding the reopening of the park. We appeal to the public's sense of responsibility to join us in this preventive measure to preserve the natural beauty and integrity of Mt. Apo,” saad ng DENR.

“For any inquiries or assistance with rescheduling, please reach out to your respective organizers or contact the MANP-Protected Area Management Office,” dagdag pa nito.