‘Sea of Clouds’ ecopark opens in Borongan City
TACLOBAN CITY—A new ecotourism destination officially opened to the public on May 1 with the launch of the Hebacong “Sea of Clouds” Nature Park in Borongan City, Eastern Samar, marking a key milestone in the city’s effort to combine environmental protection with sustainable tourism growth.
Located in Barangay Hebacong, the park is being developed as a flagship attraction in the province, offering visitors a striking natural phenomenon where rolling clouds blanket the upland landscape at dawn, creating the illusion of standing above a vast white sea.
The opening followed a soft launch and blessing ceremony on April 28, led by Mayor Jose Ivan Dayan Agda, who highlighted the park’s twin goals of boosting tourism while promoting environmental stewardship.
Agda stressed the importance of protecting forest ecosystems, which help shield communities from typhoons and other disasters and called for stronger community participation, especially among the youth.
Funded with P17 million from the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority, the first phase of development includes a three-level viewing deck, café, parking area and visitor facilities designed to enhance the experience while preserving the site’s natural appeal.
Beyond its scenic value, the site reflects a broader transformation.
Access road
Once an isolated upland area linked to security concerns and difficult access, Hebacong has been reshaped by the construction of a 21.7-kilometer access road that reduced travel time from the city center to just 20–30 minutes. Local officials now describe the route as a “road to peace.”
The project is also expected to generate livelihood opportunities for surrounding communities, including potential employment for former rebels as tour guides under reintegration programs.
Nearby barangays may likewise benefit from increased tourism activity, while local products, such as the freshwater crayfish known as “orang” could gain wider exposure.
Gov. Ralph Vincent Evardone welcomed the development, calling it a step toward sustainable tourism that showcases Eastern Samar’s natural and cultural assets.
City officials said the park will also serve as a learning site, with plans in partnership with Eastern Samar State University to install monitoring systems for wildlife and climate change research.
Entry to the park is currently free as the local government finalizes guidelines and ordinances for its long-term management. Officials said early visitor feedback will help improve services and guide future development.
