The unveiling of the AHP Monument took place at the PaNP – Castro Checkpoint and was attended by members of the City Government of Zamboanga, including City Mayor Hon. John M. Dalipe; Majority Floor Leader Hon. Congressman Jose Manuel โMannixโ M. Dalipe, represented by Mr. Champ M. Dalipe; and 1st District Representative Hon. Congressman Khymer Adan T. Olaso. Representing the Zamboanga City Water District (ZCWD) were its Board of Directors, including Board Secretary Mr. John Federick P. Ruiz, Board Members Mr. Alan B. Dela Cruz and Ms. Eunice S. Dalisay, and ZCWD General Manager Mr. Reynaldo R. Cabilin.
After the monument unveiling, the event continued at Astoria Regency Convention Hall, where the AHP Certificate was turned over, signifying the official declaration of Pasonanca Natural Park as an ASEAN Heritage Park. An exhibit was also held showcasing various agencies including ZCWD in which it features a map and photos of various flora and fauna that can be encountered inside the PaNP.
Following the event, the ZCWD Board Members, General Manager, together with Engr. Valerie Gay P. Yuayan, ZCWD Department Manager for Environment and Water Resources Department, and Mirasol F. Larete-Kanindot, ZCWD Division Manager for Water Resources Management Division, offered a tour for DENR Undersecretary for Integrated Environmental Science Dr. Carlos Primo C. David at the Intake Facility at the ZCWD Watershed inside the PaNP Strict Protection Zone (SPZ). This tour highlighted the critical role of the watershed in maintaining the ecological balance and supporting the water needs of Zamboanga City.
Spanning 17,414 hectares, the PaNP serves as a biodiversity haven in the Zamboanga Peninsula. Its forests are home to a wide variety of flora and fauna species, including the critically endangered Philippine Eagle. Additionally, the park is a vital source of surface water, meeting the drinking water needs of Zamboanga City, aiding in agricultural irrigation, and supporting manufacturing, and recreational activities.
The PaNP is managed collaboratively by the DENR, ZCWD, and the City Government of Zamboanga under SP Resolution No. 566 dated June 5, 2002. These parties share existing technologies, manpower, transportation, and communication facilities to implement various programs and activities effectively.