THE Bangrin Mangrove Marine Protected Area (BMMPA) in Bani town, specifically in Barangays Aporao and San Miguel, is made up of 42.25 mangrove forest and is open to local residents for a unique close encounter with nature.

According to Romel Dulay, local tourism officer, the area is home to more than 150 local and migratory bird species and different varieties of shellfish and fish.

A kilometer-long new boardwalk, built by Mayor Gwen Palafox Yamamoto, provides visitors a breathtaking view of the mangrove area for ‘Instagrammable’ photos, Dulay said.

The Php 30 entrance fee includes a brief educational tour for visitors’ added knowledge and appreciation of the importance of mangroves that serve as nursery to fish and shellfish.

Some of the 15 species of mangroves in the area are century-old while others were planted by different groups. As years passed, the thick canopy of mangroves attracted endemic and migratory birds to the area and are best seen early morning and late afternoon.

Visitors may rent a banca to go around the mangrove forest. They may also do kayaking.

“We offer here the best eco-tourism experience,” Dulay said but pointed out that they have to limit the number of visitors and implement the health protocol.

The BMMPA has its soft opening on September 18 and has been drawing more visitors every day.

He said it is a hidden treasure of Bani and Pangasinenses need not travel to other provinces to experience mangrove forest.

For now, only Bani residents are allowed to visit the place but soon, it will be open to residents of western part of Pangasinan then eventually to all.

Yamamoto has reminded visitors to observe CLAYGO: Clean as you go. “Leave no trash behind,” she said. (PhilStar Wire Service/ECV)

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