Negros Occidental: The Department of Budget and Management (DBM), Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), and the Negros Occidental provincial government have inaugurated the 'Improvement of Recreational Trail within Mambukal Resort and Wildlife Sanctuary' project. This initiative aims to boost eco-friendly tourism in the region with a PHP10-million allocation from the Local Government Support Fund (LGSF)-Green Green Green Program, as outlined in the 2024 General Appropriations Act.

According to Philippines News Agency, the symbolic inauguration was held at the Capitol Social Hall, led by Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman, DHSUD-Western Visayas Regional Director Eva Maria Marfil, and Provincial Administrator Rayfrando Diaz II, representing Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson. Pangandaman lauded the provincial government's efforts in developing the Mambukal Resort and Wildlife Sanctuary, emphasizing its status as a world-class tourism destination and wildlife sanctuary.

The Green Green Green Program, managed by the DBM, was introduced last July to support local governments in fostering green open spaces and infrastructure projects for active mobility. Marfil noted that Negros Occidental is the first recipient of the program in Western Visayas, commending the province's commitment to promoting biodiversity conservation and environmental awareness through this project.

The project will upgrade a trail area of 1,644 square meters at the Mambukal Resort and Wildlife Sanctuary, enhancing visitor experience with a focus on safety, sustainability, and environmental education. Planned improvements include pathway upgrades, installation of signages, establishment of rest areas with trash bins, and educational features highlighting the local flora.

Diaz expressed enthusiasm over the collaboration with the DBM, highlighting the project's significance for the province and its potential to inspire similar initiatives in other parts of the country.