The local government of Tboli, South Cotabato has announced the temporary closure of Lake Holon to all local and international tourists from January 3 to March 2026.

The closure is based on a municipal executive order in accordance with a municipal ordinance, which authorizes the temporary closure of tourism sites and conservation areas to allow ecosystem recovery, environmental protection, and the restoration of the lake to its natural state.

According to the local government, the closure aims to provide the ecosystem of Lake Holon enough time to “breathe,” regenerate, and recover from the effects of continuous human activity.

The local government said Lake Holon is set to be reopened before the start of the Seslong Festival in March 2026.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources-SOCCSKSARGEN (DENR-12) said Lake Holon is an ecotourism destination within the Allah Valley Protected Landscape governed by the Protected Area Management Board (PAMB).

DENR-12 said the local government unit of Tboli is currently processing its application for a Special Use Agreement in Protected Area (SAPA).

“The closure, which is practiced annually, is an essential conservation measure aimed at protecting the lake’s biodiversity, preserving water quality, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of Lake Holon as a natural and cultural heritage site,” DENR-12 said.

DENR-12 added that limiting human activity during the closure period helps maintain the ecological balance of the area and supports responsible ecotourism practices.