Masungi Georeserve Rangers Bagged An International Award

Filipino forest rangers of Masungi Georeserve Foundation. Who safeguard the Upper Marikina Watershed from illegal encroachment and destruction have bagged a global conservation award.

The award seeks to acknowledge the efforts of rangers throughout the world, develop their skills, and promote awareness of the critical role they play in protecting protected environments.

The Filipino Forest Rangers of Masungi, represented by Kuhkan Maas, John Paul Magana and Monica Inonong of the Bayog Ranger Station. Won in the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) – World Commission on Protected Areas (WCPA) 2022 International Ranger Awards. Held in a hybrid ceremony at the IUCN Africa Protected Areas Congress (APAC) in Kigali, Rwanda.

The Filipino Forest Rangers – Bayog Ranger Team was hailed for their bravery and determination to defend the vital watershed despite the dangers to their life.

“Malaking tulong po ang pagkikilala nito sa pagbibigay ng importansya sa mga tagapangalaga ng kalikasan sa Pilipinas.” Maas said in a recorded message streamed during the event.

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Maas was one of the forest rangers shot in July 2021 while monitoring the Masungi Georeserve Foundation‘s reforestation program at Sitio San Roque, Barangay Pinugay in Baras, Rizal.

In the awarding ceremony on July 20, 2022, Madhu Rao, chair of the IUCN World Commission said. “The world’s rangers are the unsung heroes and heroines of conservation. We rely on their perseverance and dedication to maintain a healthy planet for wildlife and for people.”