Who We Are
Our Origins
Sulu Garden Foundation, Inc. (SGF) is named after the Sulu Sea, which borders Miagao, Iloilo, on Panay Island, where the foundation is based. Our mission is rooted in the sea and the surrounding provinces, united by a rich shared heritage despite their cultural diversity.
Historic Beauty
Our offices and laboratories are located beside a historic stone bridge built in 1873 and an unnamed creek. The Sulu Garden complex, originally an abandoned bakery, was acquired in 1997 by our Chairman Jonathan Matias and transformed into a vibrant, multi-functional facility. Its restoration reflects our deep commitment to environmental stewardship and heritage preservation.
Our Work
Although SGF was formally established as a non-governmental organization in 2020, our work began in 2012 with research on fruit bats, butterfly conservation, and grassroots community initiatives. Today, our programs encompass history and heritage, the arts, environmental conservation, scientific research, and community development, continuing our dedication to both nature, people, and culture.
Certifications, Memberships & Accreditations
Department of Science and Technology (DOST)
Sulu Garden Foundation, Inc. (SGF) is officially recognized as a DOST‑certified science foundation—the first in Panay Island and one of the only two certified foundations in Region VI since the re‑establishment of the Negros Island Region.
The DOST certification unlocks access to competitive DOST Grants‑in‑Aid, technical assistance from DOST scientists, and potential use of specialized research facilities. It creates formal pathways for research collaboration, technology transfer, capacity building, and increased visibility for our programs and achievements.
National Commission on Culture and the Arts (NCCA)
SGF was also officially been accredited by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA)—the country’s highest policy-making and grant-giving body for culture and the arts.
This recognition affirms SGF’s dedication to safeguarding Philippine heritage, traditions, and community creativity, while opening doors to national networks, cultural grants, and collaborative opportunities with artists, scholars, and heritage advocates across the country.
Local Historical Committees Network (LHCN) of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP)
SGF’s request to be affiliated with the Local Historical Committees Network (LHCN) of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) was approved. Oathtaking will soon be conducted to become official member-affiliate.
Bureau of Internal Revenue Certificate of Tax Exemption
SGF has officially received its tax exemption certification from the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR). This certification is in accordance with Philippine laws that grant tax-exempt status to non-governmental organizations (NGOs) under Section 30 of the National Internal Revenue Code.