Ayon kay Environment and Natural Resources Officer-in-Charge Secretary Ernesto Adobo, Jr., malaking karangalan ito para sa bansa.
Ang ARNP, kasama ng Raja Ampat Islands Marine Conservation Area ng Indonesia at Old Providence McBean Lagoon National Park ng Columbia ay napili ng international council ng marine conservation experts na binuo ng United States-based non-government organization Marine Conservation Institute.
“We are very happy for this recognition bestowed on the Apo Reef Natural Park which is a testament of the hard work of our people at the Protected Area Management Office and all the stakeholders who have been with us in protecting and conserving this marine protected area,” pahayag ni Adobo.
Aniya, ang naturang parangal ay magsisilbing inspirasyon sa national government upang palakasin pa ang inisyatiba upang mapangalagaan at maprotektahan ang marine protected areas sa bansa.
“This award is an impetus not only for our hardworking men and women in the field but also to the national government to boost the conservation efforts in our marine protected areas through our policies, programs, and collaboration with various stakeholders,” sabi pa nito.