The Taklobo Tours Management has announced that the Taklobo Farm will be temporarily closed from May 19 to 21, 2026, to facilitate a Water Search and Rescue (Wasar) Training program.
Reason for Closure
The closure aligns with the Wasar Training, initiated by the Davao del Norte State College (DNSC) Tourism Department. The training aims to equip community tour guides with essential water safety, rescue, and emergency response skills. According to a statement released on May 14, the activity seeks to further ensure the safety and preparedness of tourism frontliners.
Regular operations at Taklobo Farm will resume on May 22, 2026.
About Taklobo Farm
Located in Barangay Adecor, Babak District, Samal Island, Taklobo Farm serves as the DNSC Marine Reserve Park and Multipurpose Hatchery. It is dedicated to protecting giant clams, locally known as "taklobo." The site offers Taklobo Tours featuring approximately 3,700 giant clams spread across a 14-hectare marine area.
Giant Clam Species
The sanctuary hosts five species of giant clams: Tridacna gigas, Tridacna derasa, Tridacna squamosa, Tridacna maxima, and Hippopus hippopus. According to the Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center, giant clams in Samal became increasingly rare due to overconsumption and environmental pressures.
Conservation Efforts
Community-led conservation efforts began in Barangay Adecor in 2009, supported by marine conservation groups and local stakeholders. The Giant Clam Sanctuary operates as a community-based ecotourism project managed by the AdeCor United Fisherfolk Organization, in partnership with the Igacos local government and DNSC. The project aims to promote biodiversity conservation, tourism, and livelihood opportunities.
