Sabang Bay in Puerto Galera was recognized as the Gold Awardee in the Search for Outstanding Water Quality Management 2025, officials announced Friday.

The award ceremony took place at Park Inn North Edsa in Quezon City on June 27, 2025 – the first time the popular tourist destination has received the top honor in the national competition.

Sabang Bay was among 16 finalists nationwide competing in the Water Quality Management Area category.

The recognition is considered as a historic achievement for Puerto Galera in Oriental Mindoro, known for its diving sites and marine biodiversity.

Mayor Rocky D. Ilagan spearheaded the endeavor to improve water quality in Sabang Bay, which serves as a major tourist hub in the town.

Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Officer Dr. Joan Margarette A. Yap accepted the award alongside officials from the Environmental Management Bureau – MIMAROPA.

Puerto Galera, designated as a UNESCO Man and Biosphere Reserve in 1973, is home to some of Asia’s most diverse coral reef systems.

The area is included in the “Club of the Most Beautiful Bays of the World” and is the only bay in the Philippines on this prestigious list.

Sabang serves as the main diving hub in Puerto Galera and plays a central role in establishing the area’s reputation as the “Diving Capital of the Philippines”. The village attracts both foreign tourists and Filipino visitors to its beaches and dive sites.

The water quality management program falls under the Philippine Clean Water Act of 2004, which aims to protect the country’s water bodies from land-based pollution sources.

The law provides for a comprehensive strategy to prevent pollution through a multi-sectoral approach involving all stakeholders.

Water Quality Management Areas receive stringent protection policies to prevent pollution and maintain environmental standards.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources has designated 37 water bodies nationwide as WQMAs under these protective measures.

Photos: courtesy of PIO Puerto Galera