The Igang Bay Marine Sanctuary (IBMS), a public–private partnership between the John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University (JBLFMU) and the Municipality of Nueva Valencia, was awarded Best Performing Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) during the 2025 Guimaras Environmental Award and Recognition held at The Pitstop Hotel on November 28, 2025.
The award recognizes the project’s strong conservation leadership, consistent scientific monitoring, and effective collaboration with local communities and key partners.
The award was received by Hon. Emmanuel C. Galila, Municipal Mayor of Nueva Valencia; Aljun Margallo, Protected Area Superintendent; and Dr. Mary Mar E. Jaleco, representing JBLFMU.
Serving as a model of cooperative governance, the IBMS continues to advance research, education, and community-based resource management, making it a leading benchmark for marine conservation efforts in Guimaras.