Tinagusan Bat Cave Management Plan 2015 2020 Plans and Policies for 2014/13...Tinagusan Bat Cave Management Plan 2015 – 2020 Taraw Caves, Batas Island, Bgy. Batas, Taytay, Palawan

Tinagusan Bat

Cave Management Plan

2015 – 2020

Taraw Caves, Batas Island,

Bgy. Batas, Taytay, Palawan

A plan jointly prepared by the Taytay Municipal Cave Committee, Local Government of

Bgy. Batas and its stakeholders and the Palawan Council for Sustainable Development

1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 RATIONALE

Caves are one of the most magnificent creations in the world and have been used to know

the history of the humankind. In Palawan, its caves are known for special natural heritage of

ecological and cultural significance. These caves preserve a record of the past and often

play an important role in the ecology of the area. They offer distinct cultural values or critical

records of natural history which contribute to an understanding of the chronological history of

a region. Unique cave formations and presence of various species of bats and swiftlets also

serve as additional attraction to the caves of Palawan.

Caves are therefore legally protected and considered as special management areas.

Conservation and development planning of cave systems is a vital activity to ensure that the

ecosystem services and the scientific and educational values of caves are put to good use.

1.2 THE PLANNING PROCESS

This Cave Management Plan is developed and prepared by the stakeholders of Bgy. Batas,

Taytay, Palawan with assistance from the Palawan Council for Sustainable Development

Staff. It follows science-based and participatory approaches. The science-based approach is

used when developing appropriate and sound strategies and activities for the cave system

given its fragile and unique constitution.

As a significant input in this plan, Cave Assessment team conducted a cave profiling in 2012

which was participated by stakeholders of Barangay Batas, Municipal Cave Committee

members, Sangguniang Bayan representatives of Taytay and PCSD Staff. The said activity

is necessary to assess, map and classify Taraw Cave Complex to determine its proper use

and management regime under Republic Act No. 9072 (National Caves and Cave

Resources Management and Protection Act).

The report contains the physiographical profile, cave mapping, rapid ecological assessment,

and socioeconomic information pertinent to developing a plan that integrates ecology and

biodiversity with economic concerns and emphasizes the geology and local culture in and

around the cave system.

Based on the assessment, the Tinagusan Bat Cave is the second largest among the five

caves of the Taraw Cave Complex. It has a large cave mouth with two (2) cave exits and two

(2) daylight holes. Thousands of bats are roosting inside the cave chambers thus the term

―Tinagusan Bat Cave‖ was derived.

As per recommendation of the PCSD Cave Assessment Team in 2012, a Participatory Cave

Management Plan shall be prepared to serve as guide in the development and management

of the Tinagusan Bat Cave.

The science-based approach is complemented by a participatory workshop which was

facilitated by PCSD Staff 1 for Tinagusan Bat Cave. A major input to the management

planning is the conduct of ―Participatory Stakeholder Consultation for the Cave Management

Plan‖ undertaken last 28 August 2014 at Batas Bgy. Hall, Batas Island, Taytay, Palawan.

This was attended by 40 stakeholders involving barangay government officials of Bgy.

Batas, landowners of adjacent environment, representatives from youth and women‘s sector

and other key stakeholders. A SWOT analysis was conducted wherein participants, together

with resource persons from PCSDS, discussed major issues and problems related to

Tinagusan cave management. This Cave Management Plan then is an offshoot of both

scientific and community-based investigations into the issues confronting the cave.

Existing legal considerations and institutional arrangements are also considered in its

formulation. The Plan strategies and actions have to conform to national laws and

regulations.

A plan is always a work in progress and it is important to communicate its contents to all

stakeholders and to review and monitor its progress and effectiveness. The Plan is designed

to be flexible and adaptive such that administrators can adjust certain management

prescriptions based on the practicability of the interventions. The following flowchart

describes the planning process.

Figure 1. Process of cave management planning.

1 John Vincent B. Fabello – ECAN Zones Management (Terrestrial Unit) Edwin L. Caabay – ECAN Zones Management (Terrestrial Unit) Cherry Lyn S. Jalover – ECAN Plan Integration and Project Development Division (Special Ecosystems Unit)

The Plan still needs to be affirmed by the stakeholders of Bgy. Batas in the form of a

Barangay resolution cum ordinance. The Municipal Cave Committee and the Local

Government of Taytay thru its Sangguniang Bayan members shall adopt and the Plan and

recommend it to the PCSD for approval.

2 CAVE PROFILE2

2.1 HISTORICAL BACKGROUND

The term ―Taraw‖ came from Indigenous People of Tagbanua residing in Batas Island

meaning ―Tall Rock‖. Since its discovery by the local inhabitants, the caves are said to be

utilized as shelter during rains/storms as well as partial hunting grounds for wild boars and

other wildlife.

On July 16, 2012, the Local Government of Bgy. Batas, Taytay, Palawan has formally

signified their intention to the Sangguniang Bayan of Taytay to declare what they locally call

―Taraw cave‖ as Tourist Spot and Protected Area through a reso lution passed by their local

council. The said Resolution is entitled Kapasyahan Bilang 07, Taong 2012 na nagsasabing:

Kapasyahang Humihiling sa Tanggapan ng Sangguniang Bayan ng Taytay sa Pangunguna

ni SB Liza Magbanua, Chair. Committee on Agriculture na ang Baton a kung Tawagin ay

Taraw sa Sitio Sabang, Batas, Taytay, Palawan na kung saan ay Mayroong Matatagpuan

Ditong kakaibang Desinyo ng mga Kweba at Napakagandang Overlooking ng Karagatan ng

Sitio Sabang at mga Karatig Isla nito ay amin pong Gagawing Tourist Spot.

This prompted SB Liza Magbanua, Chair of Committee on Agriculture of Sangguniang

Bayan of Taytay through a letter request dated September 4, 2012 asking the PCSD Staff

for technical input and initial assessment/evaluation of the site where Taraw Cave is located.

The PCSDS Cave Assessment team conducted cave profiling activities to assess and map

the Taraw Cave System in Sitio Sabang, Barangay Batas and for Cave Classification

purposes to determine its proper use and management regime under Republic Act No. 9072

(Caves Act).

Five (5) un-named caves are found within the complex and were named accordingly based

on their distinct features. The coined names for each cave are the following: (1) Sabang –

Samalague Cave, (2) Darasalan Cave, (3) Pinagtistisan Cave, (4) Kogita cave and (5)

Tinagusan Bat cave.

2 This chapter is adapted from the report Cave Assessment and Classification Report: Taraw Cave Complex by Palawan Council for Sustainable Development (2012). Most of the information in the succeeding chapters are also taken from the same report.

2.2 GEOGRAPHIC LOCATION

The municipality of Taytay is located in the northern section of the mainland Palawan with

geographical coordinates of 100 30‘ to 11 0 05‘ N latitude and 1190 10‘ to 119 0 40‘ E

longitude. Taytay has the largest land area measuring 139,050 hectares and is called as

―star of the North‖3. It is surrounded by the municipality of El Nido in the north, Dumaran and

Roxas in the south and San Vicente in the southwest

Tinagusan Bat Cave is the largest cave in Taraw Cave System. It is located adjacent to the

right of Sabang–Samalague cave. It is an active type of solution cave and has a

geographical position of N 11° 11‘ 18.0 ― and E 1198° 35‘ 55.7 ―. It is a limestone/karst

structure with an elevation of 77 meters above sea level. It is a medium-sized cave

possessing 2 chambers and has a total cave length (surveyed) of 42.0 meters (see Plan

view map of Tinagusan Bat Cave). The cave entrance is 14 meters wide and 20 meters high

and the trail leading to its mouth has an angle of 40 degrees upwards.

Tinagusan Bat Cave is accessible by pump boat from the port of Poblacion, Taytay with a

travel time of approximately 2 hours reaching the barangay center of Batas. Another pump

boat ride of approximately 30 minutes will reach Sitio Sabang shoreline which is the take –

off point going to the caves. A thirty (30) to forty five (45) minutes hike with a slope of 10%-

15% traversing the secondary forest over limestone will take to be able to reach the ―Taraw

Caves‖.

3 PCSDS. 2006. Flora Survey and Biodiversity Assessment for Core Zoning Municipality of Taytay. Palawan Council for Sustainable Development, PuertoPrincesa City.

Figure 2. Location map of Tinagusan Bat Cave

Figure 3: Topographic Map of Tinagusan Bat Cave

2.3 BIOPHYSICAL PROFILE

Entrance and Exit (Accessibility)

Tinagusan Bat Cave has a large cave mouth with two (2) cave exits and two (2)

daylight holes. Thousands of bats are roosting inside the cave chambers thus the term

―Tinagusan Bat Cave‖ came into being. The huge cave mouth and the exit openings

are a product of ―collapse‖ evidenced by rubbles of large limestone‘s scattered on the

cave opening/floor. Speleogen characteristic is jagged on the outside but smooth and

solid on the inside.

Figure 4: 1st Daylight Hole and Cave Exit

Figure 5: 2nd Daylight Hole and Cave Exit

Figure 6: Plan view map of Tinagusan Bat Cave

Figure 7: Profile view of Tinagusan Bat Cave

CAVE BIOLOGY

Flora inside the cave

Vegetation occurs only in the twilight zone of the cave usually found along the cave

entrance. Roots of Balete tree (Ficus elastica) are commonly seen dangling in cracks and

fissures along the cave ceiling, walls and floor. Vines and epiphytes are often found clinging

on the cave walls while various seedlings of plants can be seen thriving before the cave

entrance. Begonia, Cactuses and Monstera species are found attached to the walls outside

of the cave mouth.

Figure 6: Seedlings of various plant species (left) and monstera vines (right)

Figure 7: Close – up view of Monstera species (left) and unidentified Cactus (right)

Flora outside the cave

Forest over limestone (Molave forest) surrounds the Tinagusan Bat Cave structure. This

type of forest doesn‘t possess tall and large diameter trees except for some residual trees

found in exceptional areas undisturbed by humans. It is composed of species dominated by

Narra (Pterocarpus indicus), Dao (Dracontomelon dao) and Molave/Molawin (Vitex

parviflora), and are commonly found in areas with a very distinct wet and dry season and in

coastal areas on shallow and excessively drained limestone soils. Molave forest can be

found in isolated patches or blend with other forest types. Other species present in the area

are Ipil (Intsia bijuga), Amugis (Koordersiodendron pinnatum), Balete (Ficus elastica), Taluto

(Pterocymbium tinctorium), Pagsahingin (Canarium asperum), Is-Is (Ficus ulmifolia),

Kaatoan-Bangkal (Anthocephalus chinensis), Paguringon (Cratoxylum celebicum ), Bangkal

(Nauclea coadonata), Malakatmon (Dillenia Luzonensis), Tagpo (Ardisia squamulosa),

Banaba (Lagerstroemia speciosa), Dita (Alstonia scholaris), Alagau (Premna odorata), Putat

(Barringtonia racemosa), Parai-Parai, Boton-Boton, Bintang, Balon-saging, Bunot-bunot,

Kamunggayin, Tambuyanao, Buringit, Macasla, Matang hipon, Lawat, Bago, Monstera (Near

cave mouths), Begonia species (Near Cave Mouths), Yucca palm (Top portions of cave

mouths), Ferns (lower and side portions of cave mouths and some in twilight zones), and

Rattans (Palasan - Calamus merrillii and Sika - Calamus caesius).

Largest tree diameter is 100 cms. Dbh (Amugis) and tree diameter ranges from 10 – 40 cms.

dbh. Crown cover is less than 30 % of the total canopy.

Figure 8: The team while conducting the field survey

Beach and Pioneer species are also found mix with agricultural crops. It occupies the less

hilly and flat soil rich areas below the cave periphery, to wit: Talisai (Terminalia catappa),

Agosip (Symplocos aherrii), Botong (Barringtonia asiatica), Bani (Pongamia pinnata), Alas-

as (Pandanus luzonensis), Dapdap (Erythrina orientalis), Alibangbang (Piliostigma

malabaricum var. acidum), Ipil Ipil (Leucaena leucocephala), Antipolo (Artocarpus blancoi),

Tibig (Ficus nota), Hauili (Ficus septica), Hamindang (Macaranga bicolor), Binunga

(Macaranga tanarius), Kawayan tinik (Bambusa blumeana), kawayan kiling (Bambusa

vulgaris), Buho (Schizostachyum lumampao), Buri (Corypha elata), Bignai (Antidesma

bunius), Betel Nut Palm/Bunga (Areca catechu silvatica), Kakauate (Glicerida sepium), Wild

ginger (Zingiber zerumbet), Badyang (Alocasia portei), Calachuchi, Palochina and Hagonoy

(Chromolaena odorata).

Agricultural crops present are the following: Kasoy (Anacardium occidentale), Manga

(Mangifera indica), Banana (Musa sapientum), Coconut (Cocos nucifera), Cabuyao (Citrus

macroptera), Malungai (Moringa oleifera), Papaya (Carica papaya), Guava (Psidium

guajava), Caimito (Chrysophyllum cainito zyzygium cumini), Kamias (Averrhoa bilimbi),

Sampaloc (Tamarindus indica), Avocado (Persea gratissima), Langka (Artocarpus

heterophyllus) and Kamoteng Kahoy (Manihot esculenta).

Conservation Status (as per PCSD Resolution No. 10-413 S. 2010) of flora present is as

follows: Critically Endangered-Narra; Endangered- Dao, Ipil, Molave; Vulnerable - Amugis,

Antipolo, Betel Nut Palm, Dita, Malakatmon, Tagpo, Sika and Palasan. There are a total of

146 trees (forest–42/ fruit–11), 2 shrubs, 5 palms, 3 ferns, 2 vines and 5 grasses.

Fauna inside the cave

A variety of species of fauna are found inside the single – chambered cave. Dominant

among them are Insectivorous bats with an estimated population count of 10,000++

individuals. Mist netting for species identification has not been done to identify the exact

species of bats living inside the cave. These bats rely on insects for food in contrast with the

fruit bats of family Pteropodidae. Bats are vital component of global diversity and have three

(3) main ecological functions: Plant pollination, insect/pest control and seed dispersal.

Other species of fauna includes Frogs (4), Spiders (8), Daddy Long Legs (8), Snails (4),

Beetles (many), Cockroaches (many), Crickets (many), Millipedes (7), Geckos (9), Tailless

Whipscorpions (10), Black Ants (many), Shells (many), Swiftlets/Cola2x species (6), Dead

Shells (many), Mosquitoes (many), and Lizard (tuko) eggs (many).

Figure 9: Bats roosting on the cave ceiling (left)

and flying inside a tunnel chamber (right)

Figure 11: Snail (left) and Dead Shells (right)

Figure 12: Dead (left) and Alive Tailless Whipscorpion (right)

Figure 10: Frogs (left) and scorpion (right)

Only Trogloxenes (cave guests) and Troglophiles (cave lovers) are found inside the cave.

The former are fauna species which visit or take shelter but do not complete their whole life

cycle in caves. They go to the outer world periodically for some requirements, usually food. It

can be divided further as accidental trogloxene and habitual trogloxene. Swallows and

swiftlets build their nests of mud and tiny branches and straws along the rocky ledges and

walls of caves. Rats sometimes take refuge inside caves feeding on these birds‘ young and

other bits of food. They mark their trails when leaving in order to memorize the route back.

Bats are probably the most common known ―trogloxene‖ or cave guest.

Most caves are common hosts for thousands of bats like the Tinagusan Bat Cave. The latter

are species which live in the dark zone, but may explore the outside areas to find extra food.

Crustaceans such as isopods (with many legs that look alike) like crabs and amphipods (with

legs of different shapes) which eats bits of leaves, moss, dead worms and other small

animals also thrive inside the cave. As are cave crickets, with smaller eyes compared to their

surface-dwelling cousins, but may leave at night to find other food. Some spiders, millipedes

and centipedes also make caves their home.

No Troglobites (cave dwellers) are found inside the cave chambers during the survey.

These are species which live wholly and permanently in the dark zone of the caves. Most of

these animals are blind and albinos, which means their skin pigment is underdeveloped.

This is a natural mutation as sight and coloration is of no use in their environment. Blind and

colorless beetles, spiders, salamanders, shrimp and fish compose this unique group of

organisms. They have developed special adaptations such as nerves along their sides in

place of eyes to ―sense‖ food and predators. These organisms are usually endemic species.

This means that they are most probably native to or confined to their specific habitat, and

can only be found there.

Table 1. List of Invertebrates and Vertebrates inside Tinagusan Bat Cave

Common Name QTY Observed

Common Name

QTY Observed

INVERTEBRATES VERTEBRATES

Class Archnida Class Aves

Order Araneae Spiders/Tarantula 4+ Order

Apodiformes

Swiflets 6

Order

Thelyphonida

Tailless Whip

Scorpion

10 Class Reptilia Lizards many

Order Opiliones Daddy Long Legs 8

Class Malacostraca Order

Squamata

Geckos 9

Order Decapoda Crab 0 Class Mammalia

Class Insecta Order

Chiroptera

Bats 10,000+++

Order Coleoptera Beetles many Class Amphibia

Order Blattaria Cockroach many Order Anura Frogs 4

Order Orthroptera Crickets many

Order

Hymenoptera

Ants many

Class Diplopoda Millipede 7

Fauna outside the cave

Several species of fauna were observed outside the cave. Among the wildlife are Long -

tailed Macaque (Macaca fascicularis philippinensis) locally known as ―Tsonggo‖, Variable

Monitor Lizard (Varanus salvator) locally known as ―Bayawak‖, Palawan Bearded Pig (Sus

ahoenobarbus) locally known as ―Baboy Damo‖, Paniki – Common Short Nosed Fruit Bat

(Cynopteris brachyotis), Palawan Tree Shrew or ―Bising‖ (4), Tokay Gecko (Gecko gecko) or

―Tuko‖, Field Rats, domesticated Cattles (25 heads) and several species of birds like White

Bellied Sea Eagle, Cattle Egrets, Wild Ducks, Ashy Drongos, Asian Glossy Starling, Jungle

Fowl (Labuyo), Swiftlets, and Sunbirds. Butterflies, Wasps, Bees and different species of

Ants were also observed. Dead Shells was also found inside and outside of cave periphery.

Conservation Status (as per PCSD Resolution No. 10-413 S. 2010) of fauna observed

outside caves are as follows: Critically Endangered-None; Endangered- White -bellied Sea

Eagle (Haliaeetus leucogaster) of family Accipitridae commonly known as ―Aguila‖, Variable

Monitor Lizard (Varanus salvator) locally known as ―Bayawak‖, Palawan Tree Shrew (Tupaia

Palawanensis) or ―Bising‖, Long - tailed Macaque (Macaca fascicularis philippinensis) locally

known as ―Matsing/Tsonggo‖; Vulnerable – Palawan Bearded Pig (Sus ahoenobarbus) or

―Baboy Damo‖ and Tokay Gecko (Gecko gecko) or ―Tuko‖. There are a total of 6 Mammals,

2 Reptiles, 7 Birds, 1 Amphibian, numerous Insects and Flies found in the area.

CAVE FORMATIONS 4

Speleothems (Any natural mineral formation or deposit occurring in a cave)

Cave formations, or speleothems, are deposits on the ceiling, floor, and walls of a

cave. The creation of speleothems depends upon the following : 1) the amount of

surface water entering the ground above the cave; 2) the type of rocks in and around

the cave; 3) the dissolved materials contained in the water as it enters the cave; and 4)

the cave environment itself – amount of moisture in the air, amount of airflow through

the cave, and the cave temperature.

Most caves have enough openings to allow air movement, which does not evaporate

some of the moisture and causes precipitation of calcite from the seeping waters.

Nature creates formations in caves very slowly. It may take 100 to 150 years to form

an inch of material to the speleothems. The coloration of these structures varies from

white or cream, to yellowish or dark brown which is due to the presence of limonite

that is dissolved from the overlaying rocks. The red and orange hue comes from the

dissolved iron mixing with water to form iron oxide. The blue is derived from

manganese. Speleothems that are white are almost pure calcite.

Common Speleothems

Stalactites are formations that form on the ceilings of caves. They begin their life as a

single drop of water which has been combined with carbon dioxide, calcium

carbonate, and calcite. The water drop is squeezed from between fractures in the rock

4 Source: Training Modules, Capacity Building towards Caves, Karst, & Limestone Forest Biodiversity Conservation by DENR, BMU, GTZ, Gaia Exploration Club, 19-24 January 2009, DRT, Bulacan, Philippines.

and drops to the floor leaving behind a minute deposit of the dissolved calcite in the

shape of a ring. Ring forms upon ring until a small drop like tube hangs from the

ceiling called a ―soda straw‖. Through the loss of the carbon dioxide process the

dissolved calcite deposit continues until stalactites are formed.

Stalagmites are formations found on the floor of caves, reaching upward to touch the

stalactites hanging from the ceiling. Stalagmites are the result of the excess water

dropping from its parent, the stalactite.

Columns are formed when the stalactites and the stalagmite continue to build and

grow. When the two join, they form a single pillar or column reaching from the floor to

the ceiling.

Rimstone Pools. The humidity level in caves is typically very high. Thus, water in

caves with little airflow, generally does not evaporate. The excess water flowing from

the surface area is collected in small underground pools. Hence, the collected water is

naturally rich in mineral deposits. Any sort of disturbance of these pools results in

collections of calcite around the rim, which are called stalagmite ridges with hor izontal

crests. These crests act like small dams that hold back the pools of water. These

dams are referred to as rimstone pools. Continued growth of these rimstone pools

tends to reinforce the cave against collapse.

Helictites formations defy nature, and gravity. They turn and twist into irregular forms.

GEOLOGY

Dripstone and Flowstone Forms (gravity controlled)

Various formations are found inside the cave. Ceilings have few (twilight zone 1%-

30%) to moderate (dark zone 31%-70%) Stalactites. Straws absent (0%).

Figure 13: Stalactites in the Twilight Zone

Figure 14: Stalactites inside the cave

Figure 15: Stalactites in the Dark Zone

Ground has few (twilight & dark zones 1%-30%) Stalagmites and Columns.

Figure 16: Columns

Figure 17: Stalagmites

Huge but few stalagmites and columns

were found along the twilight and dark

zones of the cave.

Walls have few (31%-30%) Flowstone Sheets and Draperies.

Figure 18: Flowstones

Figure 19: Draperies

Erratic Forms (crystal growth controlled)

Shields, helictites, popcorns (Botryoidal forms), Anthodites, Moonmilk and Oulopholites

(gypsum flowers) are absent (0%). Dogsteeth and Popcorns are present.

Figure 20: Dogsteeth (left) and popcorns (right)

Sub-aqueous Forms

Small Rimstone dams (gour pools) are few (1-30%) and most appears inactive already.

Concretions of various kinds (limestone concretions e.g. cave pearls, iron, basalt) are absent

(0%). Pool deposits and crystal linings absent (0%).

Mineral deposits inside the chamber

Calcite (cave entrance along the walls) and dolomite (upper portion of the cave area) are the

only minerals found inside the cave. Other minerals like Aragonite, Huntite, Hydromagnesite

and Magnesite are not found inside the cave. Most rocks need sampling for proper

identification (some need laboratory testing).

Geological features inside the chamber

Structural features such as faults/cracks (twilight zone and dark zones) and joints are found

within the cave. Fossils are absent. Rubbles of rock are found below the cave entrance and

exits due to collapse.

Figure 21: Rubbles of rock in the cave entrance and exits

1. Hydrology

The Cave Chambers are generally dry during the assessment except for small

inactive Rimstone Dams present located on the right portion of the 2nd chamber near

the cave exit. There are no deep sumps and pools.

2. Cave Hazards / Safety

The smell of guano (bat droppings) is quite strong upon entrance to the cave. Air

circulation inside the Chamber is good and there is no indication of low supply of

oxygen. The concentration of bat population is situated in on ceilings, domes and

crevices of the cave chambers. There is no vertical pitches/entrances, tight

crawlways and deep sumps and pools. No flooding indication inside the chambers.

Presence of rockfall/breakdown occurs on the cave entrance/mouth along the twilight

zone and cave exits located on the back and right end portion of the cave. Sharp

limestone rocks/protrusions are lined along the passage going up to the cave.

3. Climate

The municipality of Taytay falls under the first type or Type 1 climate classification

under the Coronas System. This type of climatic category is usually characterized

with two (2) pronounced seasons – dry from November to April and wet from May to

October. Bgy. Batas in which the Taraw Cave System is located has this kind of

climate. Average monthly temperatures ranges from a maximum of 33 degrees

centigrade to a minimum of 23 degrees centigrade. Mean monthly temperatures vary

slightly throughout the year with the months of March to June as relatively warm.

(Source: CLWUP-Taytay)

2 SOCIOECONOMIC PROFILE

The municipality of Taytay is classified as a first class municipality of the Department of

Finance. It has a population of 70,837 (NSO, 2010)5 while the CBMS Census of 2011,

reported a total population of 68,144 individuals.

It is composed of 31 barangays such as:

1. Abongan

2. Banbanan

3. Bantulan

4. Batas

5. Bato

6. Beton

7. Busybees

8. Calawag

9. Casian

10. Cataban

11. Debangan

12. Depla

13. Liminangcong

14. Maytegued

15. New Guinlo

Batas Island, where the Sabang-Samalague cave is situated, is the farthest island of Taytay.

It is accessible by pumpboat from the Poblacion Port, Taytay and travel time of

approximately 2 hours. In fact, Batas Island is closer to the islands of El Nido.

Batas Island is under the jurisdiction of Barangay Batas. The said barangay has a population

of 1,268 with households.

2.1 Land Status

Land legal status is unclassified public forest with adjacent beach area titled to Mr. Rodrigo

Abrina of Bgy. Batas. Sabang – Samalague cave can be reach from the shoreline of Sitio

Sabang. A thirty (30) to forty five (45) minutes hike with a slope of 10%-15% traversing the

secondary forest over limestone will take to be able to reach the cave. Distance of the cave

to the nearest house is approximately 400 meters. Distance of the cave to the nearest

community is estimated at 30 minutes hiking time (Sitio Singay- a Tagbanua community).

2.2 Land Use

Existing land-use patterns in areas adjacent to the cave are agroforestry, grazing/pasture

and settlement. Agricultural area is estimated at around 5 hectares dominated by coconuts,

manga, cashew, banana, langka, avocado, caimito, duhat, kamias, and guava. The existing

5 NSO, 2010. Census of Population and Housing

16. Old Guinlo

17. Pamantolon

18. Pancol

19. Paly Island

20. Poblacion

21. Pulariquen (Canique)

22. Sandoval

23. San Jose

24. Silanga

25. Alacalian

26. Baras (Pangpang)

27. Libertad

28. Minapla

29. Talog

30. Tumbod

31. Paglaum

natural forest is more than five (5) hectares. Height of predominant tree is 6-10 meters with

an average diameter of 25-50 centimeters. Coconuts with heights of 6-10 meters dominate

the shoreline areas. No orchards as well as plantations are found. Fruit trees are dispersed

throughout the lower slopes. Grassland is absent and settlement area is confined near the

shoreline.

2.3 Cultural Features

There are no artifacts (tools, ceramics, pottery, metal implements, wooden coffin, etc.) and

ecofacts (human bones, animal bone, wood) found inside the cave during the survey,

mapping and assessment except for some dead shells.

3 LEGAL AND INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK

3.1 GUIDING PRINCIPLES

Conservation, Protection, and Management of Caves and Cave Resources

The primary law on cave and cave resources management and protection in the Philippines

is Republic Act No. 9072 (RA 9072), known as "National Caves and Cave Resources

Management and Protection Act‖. The law states that it is the policy of the State to

―conserve, protect and manage caves and cave resources as part of the country‘s natural

wealth‖. To achieve this, ―the State shall strengthen cooperation and exchange of

information between governmental authorities and people who utilize caves and cave

resources for scientific, educational, recreational, tourism and other purposes‖6

Likewise, PCSD Administrative Order No. 03-08, implementing PCSD Resolution No. 03-

217, Adopting and Revising the DENR Rules and Regulations of the National Caves and

Cave Resources Management and Protection Act as Applicable in the Province of Palawan.

This Administrative Order is issued pursuant to the policy declared in Republic Act No. 9072

and its objectives as stated. It shall cover all caves and cave resources within public domain

and private lands, excluding manmade excavation, vug, mine tunnel and aqueducts in the

province of Palawan.

Sustainable Development of Caves

In the Province of Palawan, the lead government agency tasked to implement the said law is

the Palawan Council for Sustainable Development, pursuant to Republic Act No. 7611 or the

Strategic Environmental Plan for Palawan Act (SEP Law) 7 . RA 7611 provides a

comprehensive policy on the protection, development, and conservation of Palawan‘s

natural resources through the pursuit of sustainable development 8, which is the general

philosophy of an environment and natural resource management framework called the SEP.

6 Section 2, RA 9072. The text is available online: www.pawb.gov.ph/index.php?option=com_docman&task=doc_download&gid=27&Itemid=294 [Accessed October 2014] 7 Section 4, RA 9072. 8 Section 2 of SEP Law (Declaration of Policy) reads: It is hereby declared the policy of the State to protect, develop and conserve its natural resources. Toward this end, it shall assist and support the implementation of plans, programs and projects formulated to preserve and enhance the environment, and at the same time pursue the socio-economic development goals of the country. It shall support and promote the sustainable development goals for the province through proper conservation, utilization and development of natural resources to provide optimum yields on a continuing basis. […] It shall also adopt the necessary measures leading to the creation of institutional machinery including among others, fiscal and financial programs to ensure the effective and efficient implementation of environmental plans, programs and projects.

http://www.pawb.gov.ph/index.php?option=com_docman&task=doc_download&gid=27&Itemid=294

The SEP framework is singled out by RA 7611 as the guide of the local government and

government agencies in the formulation and implementation of plans, programs and projects

(PPPs) affecting Palawan. The legal effect of this guiding framework is emphasized and its

incorporation in the Regional Development Plan (MIMAROPA) is prescribed. As defined in

RA 7611, sustainable development of Palawan means ―the improvement in the quality of life

of its people in the present and future generations through the use of complementary

activities of development and conservation that protect life-support ecosystem and

rehabilitate exploited areas to allow upcoming generations to sustain development growth‖.

This philosophy shall have three criteria, to wit:

1. Ecological viability - The physical and biological cycles that maintain the

productivity of natural ecosystems must always be kept intact.

2. Social acceptability - The people, through participatory process, should be fully

committed to support sustainable development activities by fostering equity in

access to resources and the benefits derived from them.

3. Integrated approach - This allows for a holistic view of problems and issues

obtaining in the environment as well as opportunities for coordination and sharing

that will eventually provide the resources and political will to actually implement

and sustain SEP activities.

This tripartite feature of the SEP framework can serve as the guiding principles of a Cave

Management Plan to be formulated in Palawan.

Cave Conservation, Development, and Logistic Support

In 1990, Palawan was recognized by UNESCO‘s Man and the Biosphere Programme (MAB)

as part of the World Network of Biosphere Reserves, providing ―a standard against which

can be measured the effects of man‘s impact on his environment‖9. Biosphere reserves are

internationally recognized areas of terrestrial and coastal/marine ecosystems that constitute

a tool for the conservation of biodiversity and the sustainable use of its components10.

Article 3 of The Statutory Framework of the World Network of Biosphere Reserves (1995)

provides three complementary functions for biosphere reserves:

1. conservation - contribute to the conservation of landscapes, ecosystems,

species and genetic variation;

2. development - foster economic and human development which is socio-

culturally and ecologically sustainable;

3. logistic support - support for demonstration projects, environmental education

and training, research and monitoring related to local, regional, national and

global issues of conservation and sustainable development.

… It shall also promote and encourage the involvement of all sectors of society and maximize people participation (including tribal groups) in natural resource management, conservation and protection. 9Citation for Palawan. 10The Statutory Framework of the World Network of Biosphere Reserves (1995).

The combination of these three functions enables biosphere reserves to strive to be sites of

excellence to explore and demonstrate approaches to conservation and sustainable

development. These broad functions at the regional scale of Palawan may be devolved to

the local scale of municipalities. They can be applied as well to ecosystems and smaller

management units like forests, reefs, protected areas, and caves.

Wise Use of Caves

Another broad management principle that is applicable to the caves of Taytay is the ―wise

use‖ of resources. The concept of wise use is the philosophy for wetlands under the Ramsar

Convention. There are, in fact, two wetlands in Palawan which were included in the Ramsar

List of Wetlands of International Importance: the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park and the

Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park.

The ―wise use‖ of wetlands in the Ramsar philosophy is defined as ―the maintenance of their

ecological character, achieved through the implementation of ecosystem approaches, within

the context of sustainable development". Although the caves of Taytay are not wetlands,

their locations within coastal islands make the concept applicable to these caves.

The Ramsar wise use concept may in fact be applied to all wetlands and water resources in

Philippine or Palawan territory. Its application ensures that critical ecosystems can continue

to support biodiversity and human welfare. The ―wise use‖ concept of the Ramsar

Convention is compatible to the sustainable development of a cave and readily complements

its management plan objectives.

3.2 NATIONAL AND PROVINCIAL POLICIES AND ISSUANCES

National Laws Related to Cave Planning and Management

Prior to the passage of RA 9072, national laws have been promulgated whose scope may

include activities in caves. These include the National Integrated Protected Areas System

Act of 1992 (RA 7586) which governs activities inside protected areas and The Indigenous

Peoples‘ Rights Act of 1997 (RA 7586) which provides for the protection of the right of

indigenous peoples and indigenous cultural communities, especially with regards to their

ancestral domains.

Since the passage of RA 9072, other pertinent national laws that have direct bearing on the

management of caves as cultural properties and potential tourism destinations have been

passed. The legislations related to cave are summarized in the following table.

Table 2. National legislations with significant implications on cave planning and management.

Law / Title Subject Online reference Policy declaration and selected provisions

relevant to caves

PRESIDENTIAL

DECREE NO. 1586

(Environmental Impact

Statement System)

ESTABLISHING AN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

STATEMENT SYSTEM, INCLUDING OTHER

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT RELATED

MEASURES AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES

http://www.chanrobles.com/pd1

586.htm#.UrZLCYXfl5U

It is hereby declared the policy of the State to

attain and maintain a rational and orderly

balance between socio-economic growth and

environmental protection.

REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7160

(Local Government

Code of 1991)

THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT CODE OF THE

PHILIPPINES

http://www.gov.ph/downloads/1

991/10oct/19911010-RA-7160-

CCA.pdf

(a) It is hereby declared the policy of the State

that the territorial and political subdivisions of

the State shall enjoy genuine and meaningful

local autonomy to enable them to attain their

fullest development as self-reliant communities

and make them more effective partners in the

attainment of national goals. Toward this end,

the State shall provide for a more responsive

and accountable local government structure

instituted through a system of decentralization

whereby local government units shall be given

more powers, authority, responsibilities, and

resources. The process of decentralization shall

proceed from the national government to the

local government units.

(b) It is also the policy of the State to ensure the

accountability of local government units through

the institution of effective mechanisms of recall,

initiative and referendum.

(c) It is likewise the policy of the State to require

all national agencies and offices to conduct

periodic consultations with appropriate local

government units, non-governmental and

people's organizations, and other concerned

sectors of the community before any project or

program is implemented in their respective


relevant to caves

jurisdictions.


(National Integrated

Protected Areas System

Act of 1992)

AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT AND

MANAGEMENT OF NATIONAL INTEGRATED

PROTECTED AREAS SYSTEM, DEFINING ITS SCOPE

AND COVERAGE, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES

http://www.gov.ph/1992/06/01/r

epublic-act-no-7586/

Cognizant of the profound impact of man‘s

activities on all components of the natural

environment particularly the effect of increasing

population, resource exploitation and industrial

advancement and recognizing the critical

importance of protecting and maintaining the

natural biological and physical diversities of the

environment notably on areas with biologically

unique features to sustain human life and

development, as well as plant and animal life, it

is hereby declared the policy of the State to

secure for the Filipino people of present and

future generations the perpetual existence of all

native plants and animals through the

establishment of a comprehensive system of

integrated protected areas within the

classification of national park as provided for in

the Constitution.

It is hereby recognized that these areas,

although distinct in features, possess common

ecological values that may be incorporated into

a holistic plan representative of our natural

heritage; that effective administration of this

area is possible only through cooperation

among national government, local government

and concerned private organizations; that the

use and enjoyment of these protected areas

must be consistent with the principles of

biological diversity and sustainable

development.

To this end, there is hereby established a

National Integrated Protected Areas System


relevant to caves

(NIPAS), which shall encompass outstandingly

remarkable areas and biologically important

public lands that are habitats of rare and

endangered species of plants and animals,

biogeographic zones and related ecosystems,

whether terrestrial, wetland or marine, all of

which shall be designated as ―protected areas‖.


(The Indigenous Peoples‘

Rights Act of 1997)

AN ACT TO RECOGNIZE, PROTECT AND PROMOTE

THE RIGHTS OF INDIGENOUS CULTURAL

COMMUNITIES/INDIGENOUS PEOPLES, CREATING A

NATIONAL COMMISSION ON INDIGENOUS PEOPLES,

ESTABLISHING IMPLEMENTING MECHANISMS,

APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR, AND FOR

OTHER PURPOSES



The State shall recognize and promote all the

rights of Indigenous Cultural

Communities/Indigenous Peoples (ICCs/IPs)

hereunder enumerated within the framework of

the Constitution:

a) The State shall recognize and promote the

rights of ICCs/IPs within the framework of

national unity and development;

b) The State shall protect the rights of ICCs/IPs

to their ancestral domains to ensure their

economic, social and cultural well-being and

shall recognize the applicability of customary

laws governing property rights or relations in

determining the ownership and extent of

ancestral domain;

c) The State shall recognize, respect and

protect the rights of ICCs/IPs to preserve and

develop their cultures, traditions and

institutions. It shall consider these rights in the

formulation of national laws and policies;

d) The State shall guarantee that members of

the ICCs/IPs regardless of sex, shall equally

enjoy the full measure of human rights and

freedoms without distinction or discrimination;


relevant to caves

e) The State shall take measures, with the

participation of the ICCs/IPs concerned, to

protect their rights and guarantee respect for

their cultural integrity, and to ensure that

members of the ICCs/IPs benefit on an equal

footing from the rights and opportunities which

national laws and regulations grant to other

members of the population; and

f) The State recognizes its obligations to

respond to the strong expression of the

ICCs/IPs for cultural integrity by assuring

maximum ICC/IP participation in the direction of

education, health, as well as other services of

ICCs/IPs, in order to render such services more

responsive to the needs and desires of these

communities.

Towards these ends, the State shall institute

and establish the necessary mechanisms to

enforce and guarantee the realization of these

rights, taking into consideration their customs,

traditions, values, beliefs, interests and

institutions, and to adopt and implement

measures to protect their rights to their

ancestral domains.


(Ecological Solid Waste

Management Act of 2000)

AN ACT PROVIDING FOR AN ECOLOGICAL SOLID

WASTE MANAGEMENT PROGRAM, CREATING THE

NECESSARY INSTITUTIONAL MECHANISMS AND

INCENTIVES, DECLARING CERTAIN ACTS PROHIBITED

AND PROVIDING PENALTIES, APPROPRIATING FUNDS

THEREFOR, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES


epublic-act-no-9003-s-2001/

It is hereby declared the policy of the State to

adopt a systematic, comprehensive and

ecological solid waste management program


(Philippine Clean Water

AN ACT PROVIDING FOR A COMPREHENSIVE WATER

QUALITY MANAGEMENT AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES


relevant to caves

Act of 2004)


(Wildlife Resources

Conservation and

Protection Act)

AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE CONSERVATION AND

PROTECTION OF WILDLIFE RESOURCES AND THEIR

HABITATS, APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR AND

FOR OTHER PURPOSES



It shall be the policy of the State to conserve the

country‘s wildlife resources and their habitats

for sustainability. In the pursuit of this policy,

this Act shall have the following objectives:

(a) to conserve and protect wildlife species and

their habitats to promote ecological balance and

enhance biological diversity;

(b) to regulate the collection and trade of

wildlife;

(c) to pursue, with due regard to the national

interest, the Philippine commitment to

international conventions, protection of wildlife

and their habitats; and

(d) to initiate or support scientific studies on the

conservation of biological diversity.

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO.

578 of 2006

ESTABLISHING THE POLICY ON BIOLOGICAL

DIVERSITY, PRESCRIBING ITS IMPLEMENTATION

THROUGHOUT THE COUNTRY, PARTICULARLY IN THE

SULU SULAWESI MARINE ECOSYSTEM AND VERDE

ISLAND PASSAGE MARINE CORRIDOR

http://faolex.fao.org/docs/pdf/ph

i76429.pdf

SECTION 1. Policy of the State on Biological Diversity.-In accordance with law, it is the policy of the state to protect, conserve, and sustainably use biological diversity to ensure and secure the well-being of present and future generations of Filipinos. This state policy extends to all the components of biodiversity ecosystems, species and genes… SEC. 2. Role of the Private Sector and Civil Society.-Recognizing that the protection, conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity is a shared responsibility among all sectors, the DENR and all concerned government agencies and offices shall actively engage and collaborate with the private sector, civil society, and local communities so that biological

http://faolex.fao.org/docs/pdf/phi76429.pdf

http://faolex.fao.org/docs/pdf/phi76429.pdf


relevant to caves

diversity goals are incorporated in their respective programs and activities, including institutionalizing biodiversity conservation as a principal corporate environmental responsibility. Public participation in protection, conservation and sustainable use activities, especially at the local level, shall be encouraged to maximize conservation and community benefits.


(The Tourism Act of 2009)

AN ACT DECLARING A NATIONAL POLICY FOR

TOURISM AS AN ENGINE OF INVESTMENT,

EMPLOYMENT, GROWTH AND NATIONAL

DEVELOPMENT, AND STRENGTHENING THE

DEPARTMENT OF TOUMSM AND ITS ATTACHED

AGENCIES TO EFFECTIVELY EFFICIENTLY

IMPLEMENT THAT POLICY, AND APPROPRIATING

FUNDS THEREFOR


epublic-act-no-9593-s-2009/

SECTION 2. Declaration of Policy. — The State

declares tourism as an indispensable element

of the national economy and an industry of

national interest and importance, which must be

harnessed as an engine of socioeconomic

growth and cultural affirmation to generate

investment, foreign exchange and employment,

and to continue to mold an enhanced sense of

national pride for all Filipinos.

SECTION 37. Local Tourism Development

Planning. — LGUs, in consultation with

stakeholders, are encouraged to utilize their

powers under Republic Act No. 7160, otherwise

known as the Local Government Code of 1991,

to ensure the preparation and implementation of

a tourism development plan, the enforcement of

standards and the collection of statistical data

for tourism purposes. They shall, insofar as

practicable, prepare local tourism development

plans that integrate zoning, land use,

infrastructure development, the national system

of standards for tourism enterprises, heritage

and environmental protection imperatives in a

manner that encourages sustainable tourism

development.

SECTION 39. Accreditation. — In order to

encourage global competitiveness, strengthen


relevant to caves

data gathering and research on tourism, and

facilitate the promotion of individual enterprises

and the industry as a whole, the Department

shall prescribe and regulate standards for the

operation of the tourism industry. Primary

tourism enterprises shall be periodically

required to obtain accreditation from the

Department as to the quality of their facilities

and standard of services. Accreditation shall be

voluntary for secondary tourism enterprises.

The Department shall evolve a system of

standards for the accreditation of these

enterprises in accordance with the relevant

tourism development plan. These standards

shall adhere, insofar as practicable, to those

recognized internationally. The Department and

LGUs shall ensure strict compliance of tourism

enterprises with these standards.

The Department, through the Office of Tourism

Standards and Regulations, shall act on

complaints regarding accredited tourism

enterprises, and after notice and hearing, may

impose fines, or downgrade, suspend or revoke

accreditation, for violation of the terms thereof.

Implementing Rules and

Regulations of R. A. 9593,

otherwise known as The

Tourism Act of 2009

http://www.tieza.com.ph/ckfinde

r/userfiles/files/TEZ/IRR%20of

%20RA%209593.pdf


(Climate Change Act of

2009)

AN ACT MAINSTREAMING CLIMATE CHANGE INTO

GOVERNMENT POLICY FORMULATIONS,

ESTABLISHING THE FRAMEWORK STRATEGY AND

PROGRAM ON CLIMATE CHAGE, CREATING FOR THIS

http://www.ifrc.org/docs/IDRL/R

A209729.pdf

SEC. 2. Declaration of Policy. – It is the policy

of the State to afford full protection and the advancement of the right of the people to healthful ecology in accord with the rhythm and harmony of nature. In this light, the State has

http://www.ifrc.org/docs/IDRL/RA209729.pdf

http://www.ifrc.org/docs/IDRL/RA209729.pdf


relevant to caves

PURPOSE THE CLIMATE CHANGE COMMISSION, AND

FOR OTHER PURPOSES

adopted the Philippine Agenda21 framework which espouses sustainable development, to fulfill human needs while maintaining the quality of the natural environment for current and future generations. Cognizant of the need to ensure that national and subnational government policies, plans, programs and projects are founded upon sound environmental considerations and the principle of sustainable development, it is hereby declared the policy of the State to systematically integrate the concept of climate change in various phases of policy formulation, development plans, poverty reduction strategies and other development tools and techniques by all agencies and instrumentalities of the government. SEC. 11. Framework Strategy and Program on Climate Change. – The Commission shall, within six (6) months from the effectivity of this Act, formulate a Framework Strategy on Climate Change. The Framework shall serve as the basis for a program for climate change planning, research and development, extension, and monitoring of activities to protect vulnerable communities from the adverse effects of climate change. The Framework shall be formulated based on climate change vulnerabilities, specific adaptation needs, and mitigation potential, and in accordance with the international agreements. The Framework shall be reviewed every three

(3) years, or as may be deemed necessary.

SEC. 14. Local Climate Change Action Plan. –

The LGUs shall be the frontline agencies in the formulation, planning and implementation of climate change action plans in their respective


relevant to caves

areas, consistent with the provisions of the Local Government Code, the Framework, and the National Climate Change Action Plan. Barangays shall be directly involved with municipal and city governments in prioritizing climate change issues and in identifying and implementing best practices and other solutions. Municipal and city governments shall consider climate change adaptation, as one of their regular functions. Provincial governments shall provide technical assistance, enforcement and information management in support of municipal and city climate change action plans. Inter-local government unit collaboration shall be maximized in the conduct of climate- related activities.

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO.

533 of 2006

ADOPTING INTEGRATED COASTAL MANAGEMENT AS

A NATIONAL STRATEGY TO ENSURE THE

SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF THE COUNTRY‘S

COASTAL AND MARINE ENVIRONMENT AND

RESOURCES AND ESTABLISHING SUPPORT

MECHANISMS FOR ITS IMPLEMENTATION

http://www.gov.ph/2006/06/06/e

xecutive-order-no-533-s-2006/

SEC. 4. Implementation of ICM Programmes. The implementation of ICM programmes shall take into account the following elements:

a. an interagency, multi-sectoral mechanism to coordinate the efforts of different agencies, sectors and administrative levels;

b. coastal strategies and action plans that provide a long term vision and strategy for sustainable development of the coastal area, and a fixed term programme of actions for addressing priority issues and concerns;

c. public awareness programmes to increase the level of understanding of, and appreciation for, the coastal and marine resources of the area, and to promote a shared responsibility among stakeholders in the planning and implementation of the ICM programme;

d. mainstreaming ICM programmes into the national and local governments‘ planning and

http://www.gov.ph/2006/06/06/executive-order-no-533-s-2006/



relevant to caves

socio-economic development programmes and allocating adequate financial and human resources for implementation;

e. capacity building programmes to enhance required human resource skills, scientific input to policy and planning processes, and enforcement mechanisms to ensure compliance with adopted rules and regulations;

f. integrated environmental monitoring for the purpose of measuring the status, progress and impacts of management programmes against sustainable development indicators, as may be established, and for use in decision-making, public awareness, and performance evaluation; and

g. investment opportunities and sustainable financing mechanisms for environmental protection and improvement and resource conservation.

ICM programmes shall promote the application of best practices, such as, but not limited to:

a. Coastal and marine use zonation as a management tool;

b. Sustainable fisheries and conservation of living resources;

c. Protection and rehabilitation of coral reefs, mangroves, seagrass, estuaries and other habitats, particularly through implementation of marine protected areas, nature reserves and sanctuaries;


relevant to caves

d. Development of upland, watershed, catchment areas and basin wide management approaches;

e. Integrated waste management, including, sewage and solid, hazardous, toxic and other wastes by major sources;

f. Integrated management of port safety, health, security and environmental protection; and

g. Involvement of the private sector/business sector as a partner in ICM.

REPUBLIC ACT NO.

10066 (National Cultural

Heritage Act of 2009)

AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE PROTECTION AND

CONSERVATION OF THE NATIONAL CULTURAL

HERITAGE, STRENGTHENING THE NATIONAL

COMMISSION FOR CULTURE AND THE ARTS (NCCA)

AND ITS AFFILIATED CULTURAL AGENCIES, AND FOR

OTHER PURPOSES

http://www.ncca.gov.ph/downlo

ads/RA%2010066%20Heritage

%20Law.pdf

SECTION 2. Declaration of Principles and

Policies. – Sections 14, 15, 16, and 17, Article

XIV of the 1987 Constitution declare that the

State shall foster the preservation, enrichment,

and dynamic evolution of a Filipino culture

based on the principle of unity in diversity in a

climate of free artistic and intellectual

expression. The Constitution likewise mandates

the State to conserve, develop, promote and

popularize the nation‘s historical and cultural

heritage and resources, as well as artistic

creations. It further provides that, all the

country‘s artistic and historic wealth constitutes

the cultural treasure of the nation and shall be

under the protection of the State, which may

regulate its disposition.

SECTION 7. Privileges for Cultural Property. -

All cultural properties declared as National

Cultural Treasures and national historical

landmarks shall be entitled to the following

privileges:

(a) Priority government funding for protection,


relevant to caves

conservation and restoration;

(b) Incentive for private support of conservation

and restoration through the Commission‘s

Conservation Incentive Program for National

Cultural treasures;

(c) An official Heritage Marker placed by the

cultural agency concerned indicating that the

immovable cultural property has been identified

as national cultural treasures; and/or national

historical landmarks, sites or monuments; and,

(d) In times of armed conflict, natural disasters,

and other exceptional events that endanger the

cultural heritage of the country, all National

Cultural Treasures or national historical

landmarks, sites or monuments shall be given

priority protection by the Government.

All cultural properties declared as Important

Cultural Property may also receive government

funding for its protection, conservation, and

restoration. An official Heritage Marker shall

likewise be placed on an immovable cultural

property to identify the same as important

cultural property.

SECTION 20. Immovable National Cultural

Treasures. - Immovable National Cultural

Treasures shall not be relocated, rebuilt,

defaced or otherwise changed in a manner,

which would destroy the property's dignity and

authenticity, except to save such property from

destruction due to natural causes.

SECTION 30. Anthropological Research and


relevant to caves

Archaeological Exploration/Excavation. –

(a) The National Museum with respect to

cultural/ archaeological/ anthropological

matters, and the National historical Institute,

with respect to historical anthropological

matters, shall regulate and control all

anthropological research conducted by

foreigners; and all archaeological excavation or

exploration. Pursuant to the foregoing, the

National Museums or the National Historical

Institute shall deputize other agencies to protect

archaeological and anthropological sites. It

shall be guided by the following rules:

(1) All cultural property found in terrestrial

and / or underwater archaeological sites belong

to the State.

(2) No terrestrial and/or underwater

archaeological explorations and excavations for

the purposes of obtaining materials and data of

cultural value shall be undertaken without

written authority and direct site supervision by

archaeologists and/or representatives of the

National Museum;

(3) All anthropological researches, for the

purpose of obtaining materials and data of

cultural value and where the principal proponent

is a foreign national shall be undertaken only

with the authority, and under the supervision of

the National Museum or the National Historical

Institute. Anthropological research by Philippine

nationals, especially members of the indigenous

communities shall be encouraged;


relevant to caves

(4) Archaeological or anthropological

materials presumed as important cultural

property shall be allowed to leave the country

only upon proper evaluation and written

permission of the National Museum or the

National Historical Institute;

(5) All explorations and excavations

undertaken wherein the caves, rock shelters

and their vicinities may have been used in the

prehistoric past by man either for habitation,

religious and/or sacred and burial purposes all

over the country, shall be under the direct

jurisdiction and supervision of archaeologists

and/or other experts of the National Museum;

(6) All mining activities inside caves, rock

shelters and any such other areas shall require

a written permit and clearance from the National

Museum. An appropriate prior inspection by

representatives of the National Museum, funded

by the company applying for a mining right,

shall be required to ensure that no

archaeological materials are present and,

possibly, destroyed;

(7) Excavations in caves, rock shelters and

other areas by laymen are prohibited by this

Act. All earth-moving activities in these areas

must have the proper permit and clearance

from the National Museum and monitored by

their representatives;

(8) All treasure hunting permits and licenses

shall be issued by the National Museum, which

shall formulate the rules and regulations to


relevant to caves

adequately control, regulate and monitor all

applicants for such undertakings; and

(9) The provisions of this Act on explorations

and excavations of terrestrial and underwater

archaeological sites shall supersede all local,

municipal, regional and autonomous regional

governments‘ resolutions and ordinances.

(b) When the presence of any cultural or

historical property is discovered, the National

Museum or the National Historical Institute shall

immediately suspend all activities that will affect

the site and shall immediately notify the local

government unit having jurisdiction of the place

where the discovery was made. The local

government shall promptly adopt measures to

protect and safeguard the integrity of the

cultural property so discovered and within five

(5) days from the discovery shall report the

same to the appropriate agency. The

suspension of these activities shall be lifted only

upon the written authority of the National

Museum or the National Historical Institute and

only after the systematic recovery of the

archaeological materials.

(c) The Commission, upon the

recommendation of the appropriate cultural

agency, shall provide incentives for persons

who discover and report heretofore unknown

archaeological sites, in accordance with its

rules and regulations implementing the

provisions of this Act.

(d) Any government or non-government


relevant to caves

infrastructure project or architectural site

development shall include anthropological,

archaeological, and historical and heritage site

conservation concerns in their Environmental

Impact Assessment System.

SECTION 33. Incorporation of Cultural Property

Programs in Local Government Units Budgets. -

The local government units are encourage to

incorporate programs and budgets for the

conservation and preservation of Cultural

Property in their environmental, educational and

cultural activities.

Implementing Rules and

Regulations of Republic

Act No. 10066 otherwise

known as the National

Cultural Heritage Act of

2009

http://www.ncca.gov.ph/downlo

ads/IRR-heritage.pdf

REPUBLIC ACT NO.

10086 (Strengthening

Peoples‘ Nationalism

Through Philippine History

Act)

AN ACT STRENGTHENING PEOPLES‘ NATIONALISM

THROUGH PHILIPPINE HISTORY BY CHANGING THE

NOMENCLATURE OF THE NATIONAL HISTORICAL

INSTITUTE INTO THE NATIONAL HISTORICAL

COMMISSION OF THE PHILIPPINES, STRENGTHENING

ITS POWERS AND FUNCTIONS, AND FOR OTHER

PURPOSES

http://www.senate.gov.ph/repub

lic_acts/ra%2010086.pdf

It is hereby declared to be the policy of the

State to conserve, promote and popularize the

nation‘s historical and cultural heritage and

resources. Pursuant to the Constitution, all the

country‘s artistic and historic wealth constitutes

the cultural treasure of the nation and shall be

under the protection of the State which may

regulate its disposition.

GUIDELINES ON THE

IDENTIFICATION,

CLASSIFICATION, AND

RECOGNITION OF

HISTORIC SITES AND

STRUCTURES IN THE

http://nhcp.gov.ph/wp-

content/uploads/2013/04/IDHis

SS.pdf


relevant to caves

PHILIPPINES

ECAN Zoning

The SEP framework relies on a strategy called the Environmentally Critical Areas Network

(ECAN), which is a graded system of protection and development control over the whole of

Palawan1. The caves of Palawan are necessarily subsumed under the established ECAN. The

outcomes of the ECAN, enumerated below, may be used for cave management planning and

development.

Forest conservation and protection through the imposition of a total commercial logging

ban in all areas of maximum protection and in such other restricted use zones as the

PCSD may provide;

Protection of Watersheds;

Preservation of biological diversity;

Protection of tribal people and the preservation of their culture;

Maintenance of maximum sustainable yield;

Protection of the rare and endangered species and their habitat;

Provision of areas for environmental and ecological research, education and training;

and

Provision of areas for tourist and recreation.

The ECAN zones of Taytay are already established and adopted by the

municipality. Tinagusan Bat Cave is zoned as Traditional Use Zone of the ECAN

(Figure 22).

Figure 22. ECAN Map of Tinagusan Bat Cave

Cave Classification

The classification of caves in Palawan is guided (with slight modifications) by DENR

Administrative Order 2007-04 and the Manual on Cave Classification. These guidelines

are published in The Philippine Cave Handbook: Guidelines and Manual for Cave

Classification in the Philippines (DENR-PAWB 2009)11.

Given the characteristics of the Tinagusan Bat Cave, the PCSD Cave Assessment Team

classified the cave as Class II. This means that Tinagusan Bat Cave has areas or

portions which have sections that have hazardous conditions and contain sensitive

geological, biological, archeological, cultural, historical, and biological values or high-

quality ecosystem. It may be necessary to close sections of these caves seasonally or

permanently. It is open only to experienced cavers or guided educational tours/visits.

However, this classification still needs the affirmation and approval of the PCSD.

Palawan Cave Management, Protection and Conservation Program

One of the broad powers and functions of the PCSD is to ―formulate [1] plans and

[2] policies as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of‖ the SEP Law. The

plan formulation function is already a legal basis for undertaking cave planning

initiatives in Palawan. Section 10 of PCSD AO No. 8, s. 2003, further provides for

the PCSD‘s formulation of Palawan Cave Management, Protection and

Conservation Program (PCMPCP) in coordination with concerned agencies. The

following are the identified components of the Program:

(1) Cave Resource Assessment - inventory and mapping of caves, classification and documentation of the biological, geological, hydrological, paleontological, archaeological and historical resources

and other relevant cave information.

(2) Resource Management and Utilization - regulation of consumptive and non-consumptive use of caves and cave resources.

(3) Conservation, Education and Public Awareness - promote/raise awareness, appreciation and understanding on the importance of and benefits from caves and cave resources and draw out actions for their

protection and conservation.

(4) Human Resource Development - conduct training and workshops to

improve the manpower capability in the implementation of cave management and conservation activities.

11 Available online: http://www.pawb.gov.ph/index.php?option=com_docman&task=doc_details&gid=285&Itemid=235

(5) Research and Development - development and implementation of research/studies to support cave management and policy formulation.

Another broad provision on the planning and management of caves is contained in

Section 11 of the same Order to wit:

―Any person or institution that discovers a cave/caves shall report the location to

the nearest PCSDS office. The PCSDS shall then plan the appropriate activities to

be undertaken on the reported cave.‖

The selected pertinent PCSD issuances with bearing on cave management are

listed in Tables 3 and 4.

Table 3. Cave-related administrative orders issued by PCSD.

Administrative Orders Subject Online reference Coverage/Remarks

ADMINISTRATIVE

ORDER NO. 6, S. 2008,

AS AMENDED

REVISED GUIDELINES IN THE

IMPLEMENTATION OF THE SEP CLEARANCE

SYSTEM, AMENDING PCSD ADMINISTRATIVE

ORDER NO. 6, SERIES OF 2000, AND PCSD

RESOLUTION NO. 03-2008.

http://pcsd.ph/resolutions/resolutions/a

dmin/admin6S2008.htm

Section 1. Scope of Application. These

guidelines shall apply to all projects and

undertakings being or intended to be

implemented in Palawan and shall serve as

guide for all government instrumentalities

mandated to issue permits, licenses,

contracts, or agreements and other similar

instruments.

ADMINISTRATIVE

ORDER NO. 8, S. 2003

IMPLEMENTING PCSD RESOLUTION NO. 03-

217, ADOPTING AND REVISING THE DENR

RULES AND REGULATIONS OF THE

NATIONAL CAVES AND CAVE RESOURCES

MANAGEMENT AND PROTECTION ACT AS

APPLICABLE IN THE PROVINCE OF

PALAWAN

http://www.pcsd.ph/resolutions/resoluti

ons/admin/admin8S2003.htm

ADMINISTRATIVE

ORDER NO. 8A, S. 2003

PROCEDURAL GUIDELINES FOR THE

ISSUANCE OF PERMITS FOR THE

COLLECTION, EXTRACTION, AND REMOVAL

OF EDIBLE BIRD'S NESTS PURSUANT TO

SECTION 5.6 OF PCSD ADMINISTRATIVE

ORDER NO. 8, SERIES OF 2003


ons/admin/admin8AS2003.htm

Superseded by PCSD AO No. 12, s. 2011

PCSD ADMINISTRATIVE

ORDER NO. 12, S. 2011

DETAILED GUIDELINES IN THE

IMPLEMENTATION OF REPUBLIC ACT NO.

9147 AND JOINT DENR-DA-PCSD

ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER NO. 01 AS MAY BE

MADE APPLICABLE IN THE PROVINCE OF

PALAWAN


ons/admin/admin12S2011.htm

Section 2. Scope of Application. The

provisions of this Order shall apply to all

terrestrial and aquatic wildlife species found in

the Province of Palawan.

This Order shall be supplementary to the

provisions of R.A. 9072 (National Caves and

Cave Resources Management and Protection

Act) and PCSD Administrative Order No. 08.

Specifically, all wildlife resources found inside

the caves shall be governed by this Order. In

Administrative Orders Subject Online reference Coverage/Remarks

case of conflict, the provisions of this Order

and subsequent issuances pursuant to R.A.

9147 shall prevail.

All activities/undertakings which are governed

by this Order and issued their corresponding

permits/clearances hereunder shall no longer

require the prior issuance of SEP Clearance

by the PCSD, except as may hereinafter

provided by the PCSD.

Table 4. Cave-related resolutions issued by PCSD.

Resolutions Subject Online reference Coverage/Remarks

PCSD RESOLUTION NO.

03-217

RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE DEPARTMENT

ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER (DAO) 2003-29

"IMPLEMENTING THE RULES AND REGULATIONS OF

THE NATIONAL CAVES AND CAVE RESOURCES

MANAGEMENT AND PROTECTION ACT OR RA NO.

9072" AND PROVIDING HENCEFORTH

ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER FOR A REVISED IRR

APPLICABLE TO THE PROVINCE OF PALAWAN

http://www.pcsd.ph/resolutions/r

esolutions/licensing/res03-

217.htm

Implemented by AO No. 8, s. 2003

PCSD RESOLUTION NO.

03-221

A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE PALAWAN

COUNCIL FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT STAFF

(PCSDS) TO OPEN A SPECIAL TRUST FUND FOR THE

COLLECTION AND DISBURSEMENT OF FUNDS FROM

THE IMPLEMENTATION OF REPUBLIC ACTS NO.9072,

9147 & 9175


esolutions/miscellaneous/res03

-221.htm

PCSD RESOLUTION NO.

05-250

THE REVISED GUIDELINES IN IMPLEMENTING THE

ENVIRONMENTALLY CRITICAL AREAS NETWORK

(ECAN), THE MAIN STRATEGY OF THE SEP FOR

http://pcsd.ph/resolutions/resolu

tions/sep/res05-250.htm


PALAWAN ACT (RA 7611)

PCSD RESOLUTION NO.

06-270

A RESOLUTION ALLOWING ECOTOURISM ACTIVITIES

IN CORE ZONES AND RESTRICTED-USE ZONES


esolutions/tourism/res06-

270.htm

It is hereby RESOLVED that eco-tourism

activities be allowed in appropriate core zones

and restricted-use zones duly designated by the

Council as eco-tourism areas;

RESOLVED FURTHER that the eco-tourism

activities shall be limited to regulated botanical

tours, bird watching, picture taking, trekking,

mountaineering, caving, dolphin and whale

watching, swimming, scuba diving, canoeing,

kayaking, boardwalking and tree climbing

subject to strict restriction embodied in a code

of conduct to be formulated by the PCSD with

the assistance of the Department of Tourism

(DOT).

PCSD RESOLUTION NO.

06-275

A RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE PROVISIONS OF THE

"REVISED IMPLEMENTING RULES AND REGULATIONS

OF THE PHILIPPINE MINING ACT OF 1995" RELATED

TO THE ISSUANCE OF PERMIT FOR THE COLLECTION,

EXTRACTION AND REMOVAL OF GUANO IN THE

PROVINCE OF PALAWAN


esolutions/forestry/res06-

275.htm


PCSD RESOLUTION NO.

06-276

A RESOLUTION AMENDING PCSD ADMINISTRATIVE

ORDER No. 03-08, SERIES OF 2003 ("Implementing

PCSD Resolution No. 03-217, Adopting and Revising the

DENR Rules and Regulations of the National Caves and

Cave Resources Management and Protection Act as

Applicable in the Province of Palawan")


esolutions/forestry/res06-

276.htm

Amendment of PCSD AO No. 8, s. 2003

PCSD RESOLUTION NO.

06-277

A RESOLUTION AMENDING PCSD ADMINISTRATIVE

ORDER No. 08-A, SERIES OF 2003 ("Procedural

Guidelines for the Issuance of Permits for the

Collection/Extraction and Removal of Edible Bird's Nests

Pursuant to Section 5.6 of PCSD Administrative Order No.


esolutions/licensing/res06-

277.htm



8, Series of 2003")

PCSD RESOLUTION NO.

10-396

RESOLUTION FURTHER AMENDING THE REVISED

RULES OF PROCEDURE IN THE ADJUDICATION OF

ADMINISTRATIVE CASES FILED BEFORE THE PAB


esolutions/miscellaneous/res10

-396.htm

Section 4. Coverage. - These Rules shall apply

to administrative cases or proceedings for

violations of Administrative Orders duly adopted

by the PCSD, such as, but not limited to, the

following: Joint DENR-DA-PCSD Administrative

Order No. 01 (Wildlife), PCSD Administrative

Order No. 05, as amended (Live Fish), PCSD

Administrative Order No. 06, as amended (SEP

Clearance System), PCSD Administrative Order

No. 07, as amended (Chainsaw), PCSD

Administrative Order No. 08 (Caves) and PCSD

Administrative Order No. 11 (Mangrove).

PCSD RESOLUTION NO.

10-413

APPROVING THE 2010 UPDATED LIST OF

TERRESTRIAL AND MARINE WILDLIFE IN PALAWAN

AND THEIR CATEGORIES PURSUANT TO REPUBLIC

ACT 9147, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE WILDLIFE

RESOURCES CONSERVATION AND PROTECTION ACT

http://pcsd.ph/resolutions/resolu

tions/wildlife/res10-413.HTM

The updated list of threatened terrestrial and

marine wildlife in Palawan and their categories

is found here:

http://pcsd.ph/resolutions/resolutions/wildlife/up

dated%20list%20of%20threatened%20terrestria

l%20and%20marine%20wildlife%20series%20o

f%202010-web.pdf

PCSD RESOLUTION NO.

12-433

RESOLUTION DECLARING SEC. 7 OF PCSD

ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER NO. 08 AS NULL AND VOID

FOR BEING CONTRARY TO THE INTENTS AND

PURPOSES OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 9072


esolutions/admin/PCSD%20Re

solution%20No.12-433.htm


PCSD RESOLUTION NO.

13-484

DIRECTING THE ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL

RESOURCES COMMITTEE TO PERFORM THE

FUNCTIONS OF PALAWAN WILDLIFE MANAGMEMENT

COMMITTEE AND PALAWAN CAVES MANAGEMENT,

PROTECTION AND CONSERVATION COMMITTEE

AMENDING SECTION 4 OF PCSD ADMINISTRATIVE

ORDER NO. 12, SERIES OF 2011


esolutions/wildlife/PCSD%20Re

solution%20no.%2013-484.pdf


3.3 EXISTING AND EMERGING INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS

Institutional Arrangement

RA 9072, as made applicable to the province of Palawan, is supported by the

PCSD Administrative Order No. 8, s. 2003, as amended and complemented by

several issuances. While the implementation of the law is primarily lodged with the

PCSD, several agencies are called to collaborate with the PCSD in its

implementation. These entities are as follows:

Table 5. Mandate of agencies in the implementation of RA 9072 (Sections 4 and 5, PCSD Resolution No. 06-276).

Agency/Entity Role Powers and Functions

PCSD Lead implementing agency Conduct province wide planning, technical assistance to other agencies, and evaluation of activities in collaboration with other concerned agencies/entities as mentioned in Section 4 herein, in the implementation of this Order [PCSD Resolution No. 06-276];

Enter into a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with any local government unit, other government agencies, non-government organization, people's organization, academe and other concerned entities for the conservation, protection, development, and management of caves and cave resources;

Shall lead the team/group composed of the DENR, LGU, NM, NHI, non-government organizations, Indigenous Peoples, peoples organizations, academe and other concerned agencies in the conduct of researches on the identification, assessment and classification of caves and cave resources assessment and monitoring activities;

Tap the cooperation of non-government organizations, people's organization and other stakeholders as active partners in the conservation and protection of caves and cave resources;

Disseminate information and conduct educational campaign on the need to conserve, protect and manage caves and cave resources, with other partner agencies;

Issue SEP clearance/accreditation for the collection and removal of guano and other cave resources prior to LGU issuance of mayor's/business permit;

Conduct compliance monitoring of the SEP Clearance given to cave and caves resources permitees as part of its oversight function;

Training, certification deputization of Wildlife Enforcement Officer (WEO) and Cave

Protection and Enforcement Officers (CPEO)

Determine, in collaboration with concerned entities, the appropriate bonds and fees for the issuance of SEP clearance /accreditation;

Call on any government unit, bureau, agency, state university and/or other instrumentality of the government for assistance as the need arises in the discharge of its functions; and

Exercise other powers and perform other functions as may be necessary to implement


the provisions of Republic Act No. 9072.

Local Government

Units (LGUs)

Management and protection of

caves pursuant to Republic Act

7160 (Local Government Code of

1991) and its implementing rules

and regulations

Enter into a memorandum of agreement with the PCSDS for the preservation, protection, development and management of caves and cave resources;

Facilitate the organization, accreditation and issuance of permits to nest and other cave resources gatherers in the municipality;

Implement the IRR formulated by the PCSDS through local ordinances and/or other legal instrumentalities;

Tap the cooperation of local communities, institutions and organizations as partners in the conservation and protection of caves and cave resources;

Issue visitor permits for caves classified for ecotourism by the appropriate tourism office;

Collect fees/royalties, fines and bonds from the utilization of cave resources and deposit the same to the Special Trust Fund created for the purpose and;

Assist the PCSDS in the filing of cases for violation of the Caves Act.

National Museum of

the Philippines (NM)


caves in Palawan assessed with

cultural, paleontological and

archaeological values pursuant to

Republic Act 4846 (An Act

Providing for the Protection and

Preservation of Philippine Cultural

Properties) and its implementing

rules and regulations

Manage and protect caves in Palawan assessed with cultural, paleontological and archaeological values;

With other agencies, participate in the conduct of studies or researches on the identification, assessment and classification of caves and cave resources which is to be led by the PCSDS and;

Participate in the conduct of Information and Education Campaign regarding caves and cave resources led by the PCSDS.

National Historical

Institute (NHI) [now

the National

Historical

Commission of the

Philippines (NHCP)]


caves assessed with historical

value pursuant to Presidential

Decree No. 1505-78 (Amending

Presidential Decree No. 26, as

amended, Prohibiting the

Unauthorized Modification,

Alteration, Repair and Destruction

Manage and protect caves assessed with historical value;

With other agencies, participate in the conduct of studies or researches on the identification, assessment and classification of caves and cave resources which is to be led by the PCSDS and;

Participate in the conduct of Information and Education Campaign regarding caves and cave resources led by the PCSDS.


of Original Features of All National

Shrines, Monuments, Landmarks

and Other Important Historic

Edifices)

Department of

Tourism (DOT)

Promotion of caves classified for

ecotourism and in the cave visitor

management in accordance with

Executive Order No. Ill

(Establishing the Guidelines for

Ecotourism Development in the

Philippines) and Joint DENR-DOT

Memorandum Circular No. 98-02

(Guidelines for Ecotourism

Development in the Philippines)

Promote caves classified for tourism

Manage cave visitors in cooperation with the LGUs;

Participate in the conduct of studies or researches on the identification, assessment and classification of caves and cave resources which is to be led by the PCSDS and;

With other agencies, assist the PCSDS in assessing the value of a cave.

Training, certification and accreditation of Cave Guides in the Philippines

Department of

Environment and

Natural Resources

Protection of caves Protect and manage caves within protected areas;

Assist the PCSDS in the conduct of studies or researches on the identification, assessment and classification of caves and cave resources;

Assist the PCSD in conducting IEC regarding caves and cave resources;

Act as resource persons during training in cave management and caving skills and;

Provide assistance to the PCSDS and LGUs in the monitoring of caves and cave resources.

Indigenous Peoples Manage and protect caves within

ancestral lands

Manage and protect caves within ancestral lands/domains;

Assist technical personnel from different agencies during the conduct of studies or researches on the identification, assessment and classification of caves after they have obtained the FPIC [Note: The PCSD may no longer secure FPIC under PCSD Resolution No. 12-433] and;

Be deputized as Cave Enforcement and Protection Officers (CPEAO) for the


protection of caves and cave resources found inside CADTs/CADCs.

Palawan Caves Management, Protection and Conservation Committee12

At the provincial level, the Environment and Natural Resources (ENR) Committee

of the PCSD shall act as the Palawan Caves Management, Protection and

Conservation Board (PCMPCB) and, concurrently, as Palawan Wildlife

Management Committee. The function of the PCMPCB is to assist the PCSD in

the implementation of RA 9072 (Caves Act). In addition to the existing members of

ENR Committee, representatives of the following agencies are included as

committee members of the PCMPCB.

1. National Museum of the Philippines (Region IV-B Palawan sub-office)

2. National Historical Commission of the Philippines [formerly the National

Historical Institute] 3. Department of Tourism 4. Local Government Units through the League of Mayors

Municipal Cave Committee13

At the municipal level, a Municipal Cave Committee (MCC) shall be created. It

shall be led by the local chief executive and shall be composed of representatives

from the coordinating agencies, academe, and non-government organizations,

among others. The function of the MCC is to ensure the implementation of

municipal program on cave management, protection, and conservation.

Municipal ECAN Board

In the absence of a constituted MCC, the Municipal ECAN Board duly created

under PCSD AO No. 10, s. 200514 and PCSD Resolution No. 05-250, may in the

interim be tapped to act as the MCC. The ECAN Board is a multisectoral,

coordinative, and advisory body to the local government unit (LGU) tasked to

assist in: the development of plans and programs to implement the ECAN at the

municipal level; protection and management of the environment in the local areas;

the promotion of sustainable utilization of natural resources; the monitoring of

development projects to ensure their compatibility with the ECAN zones and local

environmental conditions; and the facilitation of the flow of activities, documents

and decision-making processes related to the efficient and effective

implementation of the ECAN.

12 PCSD Resolution No. 13-484. 13 Section 10, PCSD AO No. 8, s. 2003. 14 PCSD AO No. 10, s. 2005. GUIDELINES IN THE CREATION AND/OR RECONSTITUTION OF ECAN BOARDS IN THE CITY/ MUNICIPALITIES OF PALAWAN", IMPLEMENTING SECTIONS 37-39 OF PCSD RESOLUTION NO. 05-250, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE REVISED ECAN GUIDELINES. Online: http://pcsd.ph/resolutions/resolutions/admin/admin10S2005.htm

As with the composition of the PCMPCB the membership of the Municipal ECAN

Board can be expanded to include concerned agencies and entities like National

Museum, National Historical Commission of the Philippines, and Department of

Tourism.

4 ISSUES AND THREATS

4.1 THREATS TO CAVE ECOSYSTEM

The current threats to Tinagusan Bat Cave are agriculture development, kaingin/deforestation,

habitation and uncontrolled recreational activities/ mass tourism. The adjacent areas within the

cave system are already claimed by private individuals in whom some are already ―Titled‖

properties. Residents perceived that the absence of a relocation survey which result to land

grabbing and land speculation are also threat in the cave ecosystem.

Uncontrolled and irresponsible use of the cave as ―Mass Tourism site‖ might lead to the

disruption of normal processes that occurs during cave evolution. The soil substrate (guano) will

be trampled and compacted by the uncontrolled influx of local and foreign tourists inside the

chambers. Moreover, there is a tendency for other cave visitors to explore and unconsciously

destroy cave speleothems and speleogen. The noise and motion inside the caves would create

disturbance to movement and ecology of the cave fauna. Bats are the most affected by sound

waves created by cave visitors as it could lead to distraction in their flight pattern (echolocation)

and possibly abortion of their carried babies. This may further lead to transfer of habitat for the

bats which produces the food (guano) of other life forms inside the cave.

4.2 POLICIES RELATED TO CAVE MANAGEMENT AND CONSERVATION

Uses of Caves and Cave Resources

Caves may be used for various reasons, including scientific, economic, educational,

ecotourism, and other purposes. The appropriate use and allowable activities in caves

shall be made by PCSD, in collaboration with concerned entities, based on the

assessment and classification of the subject caves.

Such activities may be subject to the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) System and

other related rules and regulations. The regulatory measures on the collection of animal

derivatives (e.g., edible bird's nests and guano) and all other wildlife resources found

inside the caves are guided by PCSD AO No. 12, s. 2011.

Cave Wildlife-Related Permits

Collection, extraction, and transporting of all wildlife resources and their by-products and

derivatives (e.g., edible bird‘s nest and guano) found inside caves shall likewise be

guided by PCSD AO No. 12, s. 2011. The same Order shall cover special use permit for

the collection of species from the wild for direct trade and for farming.

Visitor permits for caves classified for ecotourism shall be issued by the PCSD upon prior

clearance from the appropriate tourism office. The PCSD shall not issue permits for the

removal of stalactites and stalagmites or any cave resources when doing so may

adversely affect the value of a significant cave.

Section 17 of National Cultural Heritage Act of 2009 (RA 10066) authorizes the National

Museum (NM) ―to collect, maintain and develop the national reference collections of

Philippine flora and fauna, rocks and minerals through research and field collection of

specimens including Important Cultural Property within the territorial jurisdiction of the

Philippines.‖ NM is likewise exempted from all permitting systems regulating the same.

Nevertheless, NM shall inform the Department of Environment and Natural Resources

and the Department of Agriculture of such collection. In Palawan, the NM may extend

courtesy call to the PCSD whenever there is an activity related to systematic research in

natural history.

Research Inside Caves

The clearance for undertaking research inside caves shall be covered by any one of two

PCSD AOs, depending on the scope of the research. All wildlife-related research shall be

covered by regulations under PCSD AO No. 12, s. 2011. Otherwise, the SEP Clearance

System (PCSD AO No. 6, s. 2008) shall regulate the research.

When it comes to cultural, archaeological, or anthropological research by foreign

nationals, the authority to regulate and supervise such activity resides in the NM,

pursuant to the provisions of RA 10066. With respect to historical anthropological matters,

the National Historical Commission of the Philippines will be the authority. Research by

Filipinos, especially members of indigenous cultural communities, are encouraged.

Treasure Hunting and Archaeological Exploration and Excavation in Caves

The NM reserves the right to issue permits and licenses pertaining to treasure hunting as

per RA 10066. It shall formulate rules and regulations that will govern such undertaking.

Any terrestrial and/or underwater archaeological explorations and excavations specifically

to obtain materials and data of cultural value shall require written authority from the NM.

Further, the archaeologists and/or representatives of the NM shall have direct site

supervision of these activities.

The NM shall have direct jurisdiction and supervision of excavations, explorations, and all

earth-moving activities in caves, rock shelters, and their vicinities all over the Philippines,

when such areas ―may have been used in the prehistoric past by man either for

habitation, religious and/or sacred and burial purposes‖, Mining in caves shall likewise

require a written permit and clearance from the NM. Laymen are prohibited from doing

excavations in caves.

Discovery of Any Cultural or Historical Property

Section 30 (b) of RA 10066 provides for the procedure to be followed when cultural or

historical property is discovered in a cave, to wit:

“When the presence of any cultural or historical property is discovered, the National

Museum or the National Historical Institute shall immediately suspend all activities that

will affect the site and shall immediately notify the local government unit having

jurisdiction of the place where the discovery was made. The local government shall

promptly adopt measures to protect and safeguard the integrity of the cultural property so

discovered and within five (5) days from the discovery shall report the same to the

appropriate agency. The suspension of these activities shall be lifted only upon the written

authority of the National Museum or the National Historical Institute and only after the

systematic recovery of the archaeological materials.”

Caves Within Private Lands

All caves and cave resources, including all cultural properties found therein, belong to the

State. Hence, landowners with caves inside their properties must secure necessary

permits and clearances from the PCSD and/or the NM for the use, collection, or removal

of any resources in the caves.

Caves Inside Ancestral Domains

Consistent with the provisions of The Indigenous Peoples‘ Rights Act of 1997 (RA 8371)

and its implementing rules and regulations, all agencies and any entity must secure free,

prior, and informed consent (FPIC) from concerned indigenous peoples (IPs) before the

conduct of research and other activities in caves within ancestral domains/lands. The

PCSD, however, may no longer be required to secure FPIC from concerned IPs in the

management and protection of caves and cave resources within ancestral domains. In the

case of caves and cave resources with archaeological, cultural, or anthropological values,

the NM may no longer be required to secure the same in their research and activities.

This is because RA 9072 and RA 10066 are promulgated after the passage of RA 8371

and thus supersede certain provisions of the latter. However, these laws do not preclude

the PCSD and the NM to extend courtesy calls, information drives, and consultations with

indigenous peoples prior to their activities in caves. With respect to the indigenous

properties, Section 21 of RA 10066 provides that ―the appropriate cultural agency in

consultation with the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples shall establish a

program and promulgate regulations to assist indigenous people in preserving their

particular cultural and historical properties.‖

Cave Tourism

There are several models of cave tourism management in the Philippines, the foremost of

which is the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park which, (famously known

as the Underground River) due to its high aesthetic and landscape value, is recognized

as a prime tourist destination in Palawan. It is being managed by the City of Puerto

Princesa through the Protected Area Management Board. The Tabon Caves (declared by

NM as National Cultural Property of the Philippines 2013) Reservation is an important

archaeological site and is being managed by the National Museum. There have been

published reports that archeological materials were also found in ille cave and

Pasimbahan – magsanib site, Dewil valley in El Nido. Maulohin cave and Istar Cairn of

Imorigue Island were positively identified as secondary burial ground due to the presence

of skeletal remains and wooden coffin.

At the national level, tourism is guided by several laws, issuances, and plans like the

National Tourism Development Plan 2011-201615. For Palawan, the strong environmental

component makes ecotourism a viable strategy in the development of resources like

caves. The National Ecotourism Strategy which came out in 2002 adapts the Bohol

Congress definition of ecotourism as ―a form of sustainable tourism within a natural and

cultural heritage area where community participation, protection and management of

natural resources, culture and indigenous knowledge and practices, environmental

education and ethics, as well as economic benefits are fostered and pursued for the

enrichment of host communities and the satisfaction of visitors.‖16

Executive Order No. 111 (Establishing the Guidelines for Ecotourism Development in the

Philippines)17 creates a formal organizational structure for the development of ecotourism

in the country. It creates a National Ecotourism Development Council (NEDC), composed

of the secretaries of Tourism, Environment and Natural Resources, Interior and Local

Government, Trade and Industry, Finance, Education, the Secretary General of the

National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), and representatives from the

private sector and non-government organizations (NGOs). The NEDC is a policy-making

body for ecotourism and is chaired by the Department of Tourism and co-chaired by the

Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

4.3 CAVE USES AND OPPORTUNITIES

Tinagusan Bat cave and its surrounding area can carry soft impact ecotourism activities such

as wall climbing, cave tour, cave photography, birdwatching, guided educational tours and visits

and scientific studies. It can be opened to experience caver or guided educational tours and

visits, provided that visits are regulated. The speleothems (stalactites, stalagmites, columns,

15 http://www.visitmyphilippines.com/index.php?title=NTDPFINALDRAFT&func=all&pid=3203&tbl=1 16 National Ecotourism Strategy. 2002. Prepared by National Ecotourism Steering Committee and Ecotourism Technical Working Group, through the New Zealand Official Development Assistance. Available online: http://www.chm.ph/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=210&Itemid=122 17 http://www.gov.ph/1999/06/17/executive-order-no-111-s-1999/

http://www.visitmyphilippines.com/index.php?title=NTDPFINALDRAFT&func=all&pid=3203&tbl=1

http://www.chm.ph/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=210&Itemid=122


flowstones, shawls, rimstone dams, etc.) inside the caves are magnificent structures to study

and observe.

The secondary forest over limestone (commonly known as Molave Forest) surrounding the cave

system still possesses huge tree species and various wildlife species. This could be a living

laboratory for students to study flora and fauna. The challenging course that leads to the caves

is a fitness treat to outdoors enthusiast and nature lovers. It has an idyllic spot to view the

Sharks Fin Bay from atop.

A zipline can also be set up from the Tinagusan Bat cave going to the beach area of the Batas

Island. Utmost safety of guests must be ensured, thus regular maintenance of equipment and

gears is required.

Tinagusan Bat Cave is primarily classified as Class II cave. This means that the cave may have

areas or sections that have hazardous condition and contain sensitive geological, biological,

archaeological, cultural, historical and high quality ecosystem. It may be necessary to close

sections of these caves seasonally or permanently.

4.4 PAST AND CURRENT INITIATIVES

The PCSDS in cooperation with the municipal government of Taytay has previously identified 13

caves in the municipality. Several more caves remain to be classified and assessed. Among the

identified caves, Sabang-Samalague and Tinagusan Bat Cave were fully assessed and

classified by the PCSDS Cave Assessment Team. There is a standing MOA between the local

government of Taytay through its municipal mayor and municipal council and the PCSD to

utilize some caves within limestone karst islands for edible birds nest‘s gathering/collection such

as the Pavillon Grande and Pavillon Pequeno. However, with the current rate of extraction of

bird‘s nest, measures must be put in place to ensure that swiftlet population will not continuously

dwindle.

To understand the dynamics in the trade of edible bird‘s nests, the staff conducted a study in

2012. The study revealed that the method employed to gather bird‘s nests is dangerous and a

mistake would mean impairment or death. It is also revealed that the edible bird‘s nest trade is a

lucrative industry but busyadors or nests collectors received only a minimal amount.

In terms of institutional support, the municipal government of Taytay is active in promoting the

protection and conservation of the caves in its territory. The PCSD is actively involved in cave

assessment in the area and assisted in the preparation of the Tourism Management Framework

Plan under the Sustainable Environmental Management Project for Northern Palawan (SEMP-

NP).

4.5 SITUATIONAL ANALYSIS

Need for Strong Local Involvement in Cave Protection, Conservation, and

Management

A major consideration to the success of management interventions in Tinagusan

Bat Cave is resolving land use conflict in the area, particularly between cave

protection and agricultural development of land owners/claimants around the cave

system. A compromise agreement needs to be reached wherein claimants will be

made to recognize the value of cave protection and conservation and will

themselves be deputized as cave stewards and protectors (CSP). An equitable

sharing scheme needs to be developed where claimants will be compensated for

foregoing agricultural activities in identified zones around the cave. Such

compensation can come from proceeds of the use of the cave for ecotourism.

The cooperation of the locals in cave conservation will simplify the approach to

cave protection and management. It will lead to the reduction of activities which

can pose adverse impacts to the integrity of Tinagusan Bat Cave. The locals can

be directly engaged to ‗police‘ surrounding areas of the cave against

encroachment of agriculture development, the practice of kaingin or slash-and-

burn farming, deforestation and uncontrolled tourism.

However, only few of the residents of Batas Island are able to see the Tinagusan Bat

Cave because of its distance from the community. While some reported that they gather

fuelwood in nearby forest, only the barangay LGU and those persons involved in the

clearing of cave trail were able to enter the cave.

Therefore, locals must first realize the importance of the cave and this can be done

through educational tour for the local residents. It can be expected that after the

educational tour, residents will have a better involvement in the cave protection and

management and will develop their sense of ownership for the cave.

Need for a Dedicated Local Cave Management Body

The Taytay Municipal Cave Committee (MCC), ECAN Board and/or Local

Government of Barangay Batas need to be constituted as the local designated

authority to govern Tinagusan Bat Cave. Its management infrastructure needs to

be strengthened to make it adequate to the task. The MCC members should be

literate about the management plan and must be able to adopt their own policies

for a sound cave management system. They should be empowered to provide

organizational arrangements to involve all stakeholders in cave management. As

such, the MCC needs to be capacitated and strengthened to enhance its linkage

and networking with national and local management authorities such as the PCSD,

NM, NHCP, and DOT.

o Carrying capacity threshold established

Before opening an area to tourists, identification of its carrying capacity is necessary to

ensure that the number of visitors will not adversely impact the cave and its ecosystem.

Once established, the local cave management body must strictly observe and implement

the maximum number of cave visitors.

Need for a “Green Tourism” Program for the Cave

The remoteness and isolation of Tinagusan Bat Cave in Batas Island relative to the

municipal proper of Taytay and its distance to the tour destinations of El Nido make it

attractive for the adventurous segment of tourists and travelers. The terrestrial cave

exploration activity can be complemented by potential coastal and marine products in

the area such as island-hopping, snorkeling, resort development, scuba diving,

mangrove boardwalking, technical diving, dolphin watching, and game fishing18.

There is an opportunity to market the aesthetic values and ―isolation and remoteness

value‖ of the whole Batas Island. A viable livelihood option in the island is green tourism

which is an environment and culture-friendly option that can bring benefits direct to the

grassroots level. Green tourism, particularly one that is anchored on Community-Based

Ecotourism (CBET) or Community-Based Sustainable Tourism (CBST), can address

both environmental conservation and socio-economic improvement of the local

communities.

In green tourism, there is no need to rely on high-end tourism infrastructure and services

and to put up hard infrastructures. Instead, the practices or the way of living of the

community can be marketed. Tourists will be given the opportunity to experience living

away from home where they have a choice of personally getting their food fresh from the

source.

Moreover, green tourism can be a platform for public-private partnerships (PPP) and

strong community support and participation. Ecotourism becomes more significant when

actually participated in and supported by the local communities19.

A green tourism program for Batas Island centered on cave exploration needs to

consider various elements including the visitation management, tourism infrastructure

development, establishment of an equitable income sharing and user‘s fee system, and

accreditation of tourism establishments and cave guides, among others.

18 Libosada, C.Jr.M. 2006. Ecotourism Strategy for Sulu-Sulawesi Seascape. With focus on the three corridors: Balabac Strait, Verde Pasage, and Cagayan Ridge. Quezon City: Conservation International – Philippines. 19Libosada 2006, p. 37.

o Need to be included in the Tourism Circuit

The Batas Island is currently not included in the tourist destinations of Taytay because of

its distant location from the rest of the tourism sites. However, the island is visited by

tourists from the adjacent municipality of El Nido. Caving and scuba diving in sharks fin

bay are the reason for this awareness. In effect, indiscriminate tourism activities are

performed such as vandalism/graffiti‘s, littering, and noise pollution. In addition, the

municipality of Taytay and Bgy. Batas LGU were not able to get revenue from the

visitation activity.

To address this, the Batas Island needs to be included in the tourism circuit of Taytay,

and if possible, in El Nido since most of its visitors came from the latter. The Municipal

Tourism Offices of both municipalities need to come up with a scheme to ensure

equitably sharing in the revenue.

o Accredited cave guides

Local residents can be hired to become cave guides so they can have additional income.

However, like tour guides, cave guides must be trained and accredited to ensure the

safety of both the cave environment and guests. The PCSD staff can assist in the

training of cave guides. Accreditation20 of cave guides is conducted by the Department

of Tourism.

20Rules and Regulations on Accreditation of Cave Guides. Available from: http://accreditationonline.tourism.gov.ph/Downloadables/Standards/CaveGuides.pdf[Accessed on October 2014]

http://accreditationonline.tourism.gov.ph/Downloadables/Standards/CaveGuides.pdf

5 THE MANAGEMENT PLAN

5.1 GOAL AND OBJECTIVES

Considering the legal and institutional planning frameworks outlined in Chapter 3 (i.e.,

Conservation, Protection, and Management of Caves and Cave Resources; Sustainable

Development; Logistic Support; and Wise Use) as well as the threats and issues Tinagusan Bat

Cave currently and potentially faces, it is the goal of this Management Plan to ensure

ecosystem integrity of the Tinagusan Bat Cave and its adjacent environment for the

benefit of the present and future generation of Taytay. Ecosystem integrity here means the

well-maintained structural and functional capability of the cave to support and sustain valuable

human services21.

Specifically, the Plan has three interlinked objectives:

1. to protect and manage the cave in an integrated and adaptive manner, 2. to efficiently use the cave and the resources therein, and 3. to safeguard the cave ecosystem‘s resilience and stability and enhance its

productivity.

The stability of the cave ecosystem can be viewed as resistance to change or the

ecosystem‘s ability to withstand perturbation or disturbance. The cave can be seen

as stable, for instance, when no change can be detected in the identities or

population sizes of species within it. Resilience is the return to equilibrium after a

perturbation. Productivity, on the other hand, can be measured as the amount of

biological material (biomass) produced in the cave during a period of time22.

The objectives, outcomes, and strategies of the Plan are illustrated in the following

diagram. It shows an integrated, ecosystem-based approach to cave management.

Overlaps indicate the common thematic areas for possible synergy between

component outcomes of the plan.

21 For a discussion of the concept of ecosystem integrity, see De Leo, G. A., and S. Levin. 1997. The multifaceted aspects of ecosystem integrity. Conservation Ecology [online] 1 (1): 3. Available from the Internet. URL: http://www.consecol.org/vol1/iss1/art3/ 22 Odum, E.P., and G.W. Barrett. 2005. Fundamentals of Ecology, 5th ed. Thomson Brookes/Cole.

http://www.consecol.org/vol1/iss1/art3/

Figure 23. Tinagusan Bat Cave sustainable management framework.

This management framework is holistic and integrative. It captures the aspects of protection,

education, and sustainable development. It is also an integration of various elements that are

vital to the preservation of the integrity of the cave and the enhancement of the welfare of the

people living around it. These interlinked elements are ecology, biodiversity, archeology, policy,

local culture, economy, and society.

The adaptive nature of the management plan has to be emphasized. This is due to the many

uncertainties and constraints inherent in the cave resource management in a far-flung area such

as Batas Island, Taytay. The scope of the plan is limited by the lack of preparatory activities for

ecotourism development, including gender and development issues, and the preponderance of

cave-related policies which may require integration and harmonization prior to their on-ground

application. This plan is subject to monitoring and periodic review and will be revised

accordingly

5.2 EXPECTED OUTCOMES AND STRATEGIES TO ACHIEVE THEM

The following are three expected outcomes of the implementation of the Plan:

1. established and strengthened cave governance, stewardship, and advocacy, and 2. reduced cave threats and enhanced cave ecosystem security, 3. established green tourism program for the cave.

ESTABLISHED GREEN

TOURISM PROGRAM FOR

THE CAVE

STRENGTHENED CAVE

GOVERNANCE,

STEWARDSHIP, AND

ADVOCACY

Community capacity development and

empowerment; sustainable use of resources;

equity in resource access and benefits

Conservation and protection of

cave and cave support systems;

reduction of risks to cave system;

restoration of exploited areas

Cave policy development; strong

local involvement; enhanced

linkages; IEC; strong

participation

Sustainable, Efficient,

and Wise Use of Cave

Well-Protected and

Well-Managed Cave

Maintained Resilience and

Stability and Enhanced

Productivity of Cave

Ecosystem

Safeguarded

Ecological and

Cultural Integrity

of the Cave

REDUCED CAVE

THREATS AND

ENHANCED CAVE

ECOSYSTEM

SECURITY

Outcome 1: Cave Governance, Stewardship, and Advocacy

The creation and capacitation of a cave governing body will ensure that all efforts

on cave management will be supervised and administered. Promoting cave

stewardship and advocacy will be vital not only to achieving success of initial

efforts but to sustaining them over time. The strategies to achieve the first outcome

include the following:

policy development and policy reform

relocation survey and land claimants/owners discussion

community organization and mobilization to encourage the active

involvement and participation of local people

training and education of all personnel involved in cave management

exchange of experience, knowledge, and expertise

multidisciplinary research and development to aid cave planners, policy

makers, and decision makers

information campaigns and extension services

internal and external linkage and networking

Outcome 2: Cave Protection and Security

The second outcome makes sure that the management regime will be able to

provide security for the cave. The strategies to be used to attain this include the

following:

cave protection and management through political agreements, policy

measures, ecosystem enhancement, and law enforcement

waste management

cave system zoning

regular monitoring of the cave ecosystem

identification of prohibited acts inside the cave

Outcome 3: Green Tourism Centered on Cave Exploration

Green tourism, also known as ecotourism or sustainable tourism, is a development

activity that fosters sustainable social and economic development that is

environmentally and culturally sensitive. It supports the creation of jobs, innovative

local enterprises, small businesses, and cottage industries. For an ecotourism

program to be sustainable, it has to have six key elements: nature products,

strategy, mechanisms, leadership, inputs, and participation/partnership (Bagadion

and Juan 2013)23. All these elements have to be factored in and a MOA among

23 “Transforming Protected Areas Into Effective and Sustainable Ecotourism Destinations: Lessons From the Ground”. Paper presented to BIMP-EAGA Conference 2013. 16-17 December 2013, A & A Plaza Hotel, Puerto Princesa City.

concerned authorities and stakeholders has to be put in place prior to the full

blown development of the cave as an ecotourism destination area.

The third outcome is about applying good practices and employing the best

standards of green tourism through the satisfaction of the six key ecotourism

elements. The achievement of this outcome depends on the content of tourism

programs, competence of staff and logistic support for the visitors, and

development of supplementary livelihood activity and sources of income for the

local population.

Previous visitors to Tinagusan Bat Cave are mostly tourists who also visited the destination in El

Nido. The cave tourism must at first build around this niche clientele but eventually has to

expand for the ecotourism program to be economically viable. It has to avoid elite capture

(Bagadion and Juan 2013) and, notwithstanding the remoteness of the area, instead cater to the

general populace. One way to do this is to develop a ―Cave Caravan‖ tour package that is

affordable for middle income earning individuals coming from other municipalities like El Nido,

Roxas and San Vicente. Other caves of Taytay and El Nido can also be developed and

clustered as a tourism circuit. This can be done through a reservation system where a

―manageable‖ number of visitors are ferried from Palawan Mainland. The visit can be advertised

as an educational group visit or a getaway (escape) to a remote area. The promotion of cave

exploration activity can take advantage of the geological uniqueness, peacefulness, and

bountiful coastal/marine resources in the island.

Cave guides must be prepared through training and accreditation on caving and first aid

procedures. Also, provision of cave safety equipment is necessary to ensure the welfare of both

guests and guides. Establishment of information and education materials around the cave will

increase the appreciation of visitors on the importance of the cave and forest ecosystem.

Wharf and other basic tourist requirements such as accommodation, water and food source

must be prepared prior to the arrival of guests. Local community can also offer services and

developed locally-made products to the guests.

Regular monitoring and maintenance of caves and its adjacent forested area is useful to ensure

that the environment is not adversely affected by the influx of guests. Establishment of waiting

shed (made of light materials) in strategic location can also be done which will serve as Tourist

Information Center.

Along with the influx of tourists in the island is the generation of wastes. It is therefore needed to

formulate the Solid Waste Management Plan and designate Material Recovery Facility (MRF).

Location of the designated MRF from the island‘s source of water and households must be

taken into consideration.

5.3 PLAN COMPONENTS

The following matrix shows major components of the Cave Management Plan

under each desired outcome and alongside the threats and issues they address.

The specific actions in each component are enumerated in the next section.

Table 6. The major outcomes of the Cave Management Plan and the corresponding

problems addressed and components.

Major problem, issue, need, or

priority to be addressed

Plan

component

OUTCOME 1: ESTABLISHED AND STRENGTHENED CAVE GOVERNANCE,

STEWARDSHIP, AND ADVOCACY

Lack of cave environment protection

Land use conversion

Policy Reform and Development

Lack of a cave governing body Human Resources Development

Lack of mechanism for a science-based decision making on cave management

Research and Development

Lack of a coherent cave advocacy program

IEC and Advocacy

OUTCOME 2: REDUCED CAVE THREATS AND ENHANCED

CAVE ECOSYSTEM SECURITY

Lack of cave environment protection

Land use conflict

Agriculture development

Kaingin/deforestation

Uncontrolled recreation/tourism

Cave Protection and Management

Waste Management

Human settlements in the cave periphery

Economic activities in and around cave periphery

Zoning of Cave and Cave Periphery

OUTCOME 3: ESTABLISHED GREEN TOURISM FOR CAVE

Uncontrolled recreation/tourism

Lack of cave tourism infrastructure

Green Tourism and Cave Visitor Management

Livelihood Development

5.4 STRATEGIC OPTIONS FOR PRESCRIPTION

The matrix below contains cave management actions to be undertaken for the

identified plan outcomes and objectives. It is followed by the six-year work plan.

Table 7: Tinagusan Bat Cave Management Action Plan

OBJECTIVES TARGETS ACTION OUTPUT / INDICATORS RESPONSIBILITY

A1. To implement Tinagusan Bat

Cave Management Plan

(TBCMP)

1) TBCMP presented and

approved by community,

LGU, NM, and PCSD

1) Presentation of the TBCMP before

the community, barangay LGU, NM,

DOT, PCSD, and other stakeholders

- Presentations and

consultations held

LGU, PCSDS, NM, DOT,

Other Stakeholders

2) TBCMP adopted by

barangay and municipal LGU

1) Adoption of the TBCMP by the

LGU

- Barangay and SB

resolutions LGU

2) Integration of TBCMP to the

municipal CLUP

- TBCMP integrated with e-

CLUP LGU, PCSDS

3) Implementation of the actions

prescribed in the TBCMP

- Actions implemented as

stipulated in the workplan LGU, MCC/ECAN Board

3) Community are informed

on TBCMP

1) Information, Education,

Communication (IEC) on the TBCMP - IEC activities conducted LGU, PCSDS

- No. of individuals covered

by IEC activities LGU

A2. To review existing PCSD

policy on caves

1) Amendment to the

provision of PCSD Admin

Order No. 8

1) Review of the legal provisions and

institutional mechanisms contained in

PCSD Admin Order No. 8

- AO 8 reviewed PCSD/S, PCMPCC

2) Approval of amendments to PCSD Admin Order No. 8

- Amended AO 8 approved by PCSD

PCSD

A3. To regulate mass tourism,

extractive activities, and

research in caves of Taytay and the whole Palawan

1) Issuance of a provincial

policy governing extractive

activities, and research in the

caves of Palawan consistent

with provisions of RA 10066 (Section 30), RA 9072, RA

7611, RA 9147 and other

laws

1) Dialogue of concerned agencies to

come up with a provincial policy on extractive cave activities and researches

- Joint DENR, PCSD, NM and

NHCP policy on regulating extractive activities

PCSD/S, PCMPCC, NM,

DENR-PAWB, NHCP, LGU

2) Passage of a municipal

ordinance adopting and

enforcing Section 30 of RA

10066 (National Cultural

Heritage Act of 2009) and RA 9147 regulating the

collection of cave and cave

resources

1) Drafting of a municipal ordinance

adopting the provisions of Section 30

of RA 10066 and RA 9147

- Draft municipal ordinance

regulating activities in Taytay

caves prepared

LGU, NM, PCSD/S

2) SB deliberations and public hearing

on proposed ordinance regulating cave

activities

- Minutes of SB session and

public hearing LGU

3) Passage of an ordinance on activities

in caves of Taytay

- Municipal ordinance on

cave and cave resources

collection

LGU

A4. To strengthen the Municipal

Cave Committee (MCC) and

form a local management body

that will administer the

implementation of the TBCMP

1) MCC strengthened and

local management body

formed and organized

1) Strengthening of the MCC and

creating a management body for the

Taraw Caves in Batas Island, Taytay

- MCC Resolution creating a

local management body for

the Taraw Caves

LGU, MCC/ECAN Board

2) Conduct regular MCC meeting to

discuss the implementation of TBCMP

and other issues

- Minutes of MCC meetings MCC/ECAN Board

B1. To capacitate members of

MCC and ECAN Board on cave

governance and ecological

concepts

1) MCC members

trained/informed on Caves

Act and other cave policies,

cave ecosystem management,

and cave ecology, including

but not limited to the

following topics: cave

wildlife, cave geology,

Tinagusan Bat cave

archaeology and

anthropology, economic

value of cave ecosystems,

Payments for Ecosystem Services (PES), best practices

on ecotourism

1) Attend training on cave governance,

planning, and management

- No. of MCC members

trained

MCC/ECAN Board,

PCSDS

B2. To capacitate local residents

living near Tinagusan Bat Cave

about the importance and

benefits of Tinagusan Bat Cave

conservation and their role as

protectors of cave

1) Local residents trained in

cave protection and

stewardship

1) Attend general training on cave

protection and stewardship

- Information drive held and

local residents trained

MCC, Community,

Barangay LGU

B3. To recruit and capacitate

"Tinagusan Bat Cave stewards

and protectors" among local

residents who will look after the

cave, ensure its security, and

perform regular cave inspection

and cleanup

1) Local residents trained in

cave safety, exploration

skills, basic first aid training,

and basic life support training

1) Training of cave stewards and

protectors

- Trained cave stewards and

protectors

MCC, Community,

Barangay LGU, Cave

Stewards and Protectors

2) Local residents deputized

as "Tinagusan Bat Cave

stewards and protectors"

1) Deputation of cave stewards and

protectors

- Trained and deputized cave

stewards and protectors

MCC, Community,

Barangay LGU, Cave


B4. To attend national and

regional cave conferences,

seminars, trainings, and

workshops

1) Attendance to

national/regional cave

conventions and capacity

building activities

1) Attend cave conventions - No. of participants to cave

conferences

MCC, LGU, PCSDS,

Cave Stewards and

Protectors

B5. To visit existing cave systems

under sustainable management

(e.g., Sagada, Davao, PPSRNP,

Tabon Cave)

1) Visit to model cave

management system within

or outside Palawan

1) Lakbay-Aral - No. of visitors to model cave

areas

MCC, LGU, PCSDS,

Cave Stewards and

Protectors

B6. To procure caving

equipment for use by cave

guides, cave stewards and

protectors, and CPEOs

1) Purchase of caving

equipment

1) Canvass and buying of caving

equipment - No. of equipment acquired

MCC, LGU, CPEO, Cave


B7. To purchase enforcement

devices and equipment for CPEOs

1) Purchase of cave

enforcement devices and equipment

1) Canvass and buying of cave enforcement devices and equipment

- No. of devices and equipment acquired

MCC, LGU, CPEO

C1. To improve basic knowledge

on Tinagusan Bat Cave

ecosystem, including its

socioeconomic setting

1) Interdisciplinary field

surveys and research

onTinagusan Bat Cave

undertaken by authorities and

specialists. Topics include,

but are not limited to, the

following: (a) baseline plant

and animal population

surveys and biodiversity

assessment, (b) assessment of

vulnerability of cave and

forest over limestone

ecosystems to potential climate change impacts, (c)

ecotourism carrying capacity

studies, (d) detailed threats

analysis, and (e)

socioeconomic study of

Tinagusan Bat Cave and its

setting

1) Conduct of cave research in various

disciplines

- Outputs of scientific

researches undertaken in

Tinagusan Bat Cave

Specialists and

Researchers from the

Academe (Geologists,

Geographers, Biologists,

Architects, Sociologists,

Economists), Research

Institutions, NM, NHCP, PCSDS, NGOs, NGAs

2) Presentation of research findings to

MCC and local residents - Presentations held

Researchers, MCC, LGU,

PCSD/S

D1. To implement an IEC and

Advocacy Plan for Tinagusan

Bat Cave protection, protection,

and management

1) Tinagusan Bat Cave IEC

and Advocacy Plan

formulated

1) Data gathering and conduct of

workshops to prepare an IEC and

Advocacy Plan

- Data gathered and

workshops held

MCC, LGU, PCSDS,

Community

2) Writing of the IEC and Advocacy

Plan

- Tinagusan Bat Cave IEC and

Advocacy Plan drafted

MCC, LGU, PCSDS,

Community

2) Photography and video

documentation of Tinagusan

Bat Cave

1) Documentation of the cave through

photography and video

- Photographs and videos

taken of Tinagusan Bat Cave MCC, LGU, PCSDS, NM

3) IEC and advocacy

materials for various media

(print, radio, television,

brochures, flyers, streamers,

posters, online/website,

social networking sites)

designed

1) Preparation of Tinagusan Bat Cave

IEC materials - No. of IEC materials

MCC, LGU, PCSDS,

Community

4) Dissemination of IEC

materials

1) Publication, broadcast, and

distribution of Tinagusan Bat Cave IEC

materials

- No. of

communities/individuals

reached by IEC and advocacy

activities

DENR, MCC, LGU,

PCSDS, Community

5) Initiated a Taytay cave pride campaign which

includes the following

strategies: photo exhibit,

designation of a showroom

for valuable artifacts found in

the cave, contests for

schoolchildren, cave

launching activities

1) Undertake Taytay cave pride

campaign

- Documentation of cave pride

campaign

MCC, LGU, PCSDS,

Community

6) Cave protection and

conservation integrated in

elementary grade curriculum

1) Teaching of cave protection and

conservation in class

- Cave protection and

conservation integrated in the

teachers' lesson plans

DepEd, MCC

E1. To enter into MOA (between

and among PCSD, municipal

and barangay LGUs, NM, and

land claimants) on cave

ecosystem conservation,

protection and resource

utilization around Tinagusan Bat

Cave

1) MOA on cave protection,

conservation, and

management specifying

controls on the regulation on

harvesting of planted trees

and agricultural expansion

around the cave)

1) Conduct of relocation survey and

Dialogues/roundtable discussions with

all land owners/claimants near

Tinagusan Bat Cave and resolution of

any land use conflicts

- Land owners/claimants

consulted and conflicts

resolved

PCSD, NM, LGUs,

Community, Land

Claimants

2) Preparation of draft MOA specifying

responsibilities and expected output of

each stakeholder, roundtable

discussions on MOA contents, and

MOA signing

- MOA signed

PCSD, NM, LGUs,

Community, Land

Claimants

E2. To enhance vegetative cover

of the area surrounding the cave

(tied to the National Greening

Program convergence initiative)

1) Suitable indigenous forest

trees planted around the cave

1) Enrichment planting of cave

environs - No. of seedlings planted

DENR, MCC, LGU,

Community

2) Monitoring of trees planted - Survival rate of planted trees DENR, MCC, LGU,

Community

2) Incentive system

established for locals who

planted trees within the cave

management area

1) Development of a scheme where

planters of trees will be given

incentives (e.g., a certain amount for a

surviving planted tree)

- Incentives given to locals

who planted and maintained

trees

MCC, LGU

3) Local nursery established

for production and

maintenance of seedlings

1) Nursery establishment and

maintenance

- Established tree nursery

manned with staff and

provided with necessary

equipment

DENR, MCC, LGU,

Community

4) Seedlings produced 1) Seedling production - No. of seedlings produced DENR, MCC, LGU,

Community

E3. To deputize Cave Protection

Enforcement Officer (CPEO)

1) CPEOs deputized in

Taytay

1) Design of training module for

CPEOs

- CPEO training design,

materials, and kits PCSDS

2) Recruitment and training of CPEOs

from barangay and municipal LGUs,

local NGOs, community organizations, IPs, volunteers, and law enforcement

agencies (PNP, AFP, NBI)

- Training held

PCSDS, MCC, LGUs,

NGOs, Community, PNP, AFP, NBI

3) Deputation of CPEOs - CPEOs formally deputized PCSD, PCSDS, MCC,

CPEO

E4. To classify Tinagusan Bat Cave as Class II cave

1) Tinagusan Bat Cave classified as Class II Cave

1) Submission of technical recommendations to PCSD for cave

classification

- PCSD resolution classifying Sabang Samalague Cave as

Class II cave

PCSD/S, PCMPCC

2) Submission of PCSD resolution to

DENR MIMAROPA for inclusion of

Tinagusan Bat Cave in the national list

of assessed and classified caves

- Tinagusan Bat included in

the national list of caves

PCSD/S, PCMPCC,

DENR MIMAROPA,

RCC(?), NCC

3) Information drive about the

classification of the cave and its

specific chambers/passages

- Information about cave

classification and prohibition

of entry in certain chambers

and mazes shared to

stakeholders

LGU, MCC/ECAN Board

E5. To evaluate and monitor the

implementation of the TBCMP

and assess cave management

effectiveness

1) Assessment of outputs and

indicators contained in the

TBCMP

1) Semestral evaluation and monitoring

of TBCMP accomplishments

- Report on TBCMP

monitoring and evaluation

MCC, PCSDS,

Monitoring and

Evaluation Team (to be

created), Academe

2) Assessment of cave

management effectiveness

1) Annual assessment of cave

management effectiveness

- Report on cave management

effectiveness

MCC, PCSDS,

Monitoring and

Evaluation Team (to be

created), Academe

F1. To cleanup the cave and

surrounding areas regularly and

restore the cave's aesthetics with

the help of cave restoration

experts

1) Cleaning of plastic wastes,

bottles, and wood debris in

and around the cave

1) Mobilization and cleanup of cave

wastes

- Volume of waste

collected/cleaned up

MCC, LGU, Community,

DepEd, NGOs

1) Advice sought from cave

restoration experts re: the

proper way of cleaning up

graffiti and vandals

1) Expert from NM and similar bodies

contacted for advice on proper way of

cleaning up graffiti and vandals

-Expert advice on the proper

methods and equipment for

cleaning up of graffiti in

Tinagusan Bat Cave based

MCC, LGU, NM

2) Graffiti and vandals

cleaned up inside the cave

using the methods

approved/recommended by

the expert

1) Mobilization and cleanup of cave

graffiti/vandals - Cave features cleaned up


NM

F2. To characterize the wastes

produced in Tinagusan Bat Cave

and plan for their management or disposal

1) Cave waste analyzed and

characterized

1) Inventory and classification of

wastes

- Waste analysis and

characterization (WAC) report


Cave Stewards and

Protectors

G1. To clearly define the boundaries/limits of Tinagusan

Bat Cave management area,

taking into consideration the

direct and indirect effects of

human activities in the cave

system

1) Boundary of Tinagusan

Bat Cave management area

delineated

1) Survey and mapping of the vicinity

of Tinagusan Bat Cave and "impact

zones" around it

- Draft map of Tinagusan Bat

Cave management area


PCSDS, PCMPCC, NM

2) Presentation of Tinagusan Bat Cave

management boundary to stakeholders

- Presentation of map and

finalization of map


PCSDS, PCMPCC, NM

3) Printing of cave location maps and

posting of the map in the locality

- Map reproduced and

displayed in strategic areas


PCSDS

4) Boundary demarcation using suitable

natural monuments (bio-fencing) or

non-destructive concrete monuments AFTER seeking advice from experts

(e.g., NM)

- Monuments planted around

the cave


PCSDS, NM

G2. To prepare existing land

use/land cover (LU-LC) map

around the cave

1) LU-LC mapping around

Tinagusan Bat Cave

1) Data gathering, field work, ground

truthing, map production, social ground

truthing

- LU-LC map of Tinagusan

Bat Cave


PCSDS

G3. To gather demographic data

and conduct cultural mapping of

the area

1) Census survey and cultural

mapping undertaken

1) Gathering of demographic and

cultural data of Tinagusan Bat Cave

area

- Demographic and cultural

information gathered MCC, LGU, PCSDS

G4. To classify management

zones around the cave using

available information (LU-LC

map) and through participatory

cave management zoning

1) Identified zones, which

may include: restoration and

rehabilitation zone,

agroforestry zone, ecotourism

zone, strict protection zone,

cave buffer zone

1) Participatory cave system zoning - Tinagusan Bat Cave

management zones map


PCSDS, NM

G5. To prescribe allowable and

prohibited uses in each cave

management zone

1) Identified uses of the cave 1) Participatory zones use prescription - Well-defined uses for each

management zone


PCSDS, NM

G6. To pass a local resolution or

ordinance prescribing the zones

and uses of Tinagusan Bat Cave

management area

1) Resolution on Tinagusan

Bat Cave system

management zone map and

prescribed uses for each zone

adopted (specifically

delineating cave core and

buffer zones where land use

conversion from forest to

other uses will not be

allowed)

1) SB deliberations, reconnaissance,

and preparation of draft cave

management zones map and resolution

- Draft cave management

zones map (with cave buffer

zone) prepared

SB, MCC, LGU,

Community, PCSDS, NM

2) Public hearing on cave management

zones map

- Stakeholder issues on cave

management zones map heard,

discussed, and addressed

SB, MCC, LGU,


3) Passage of a local ordinance

delineating cave management zones

and prescribing uses per zone

- Municipal resolution

adopting Tinagusan Bat Cave

management zones map and

allowable/prohibited uses per

zone (specifically ordering

cessation of land use

converison in cave core and

buffer zones)

SB, MCC, LGU,


H1. To enter into a joint MOA

on cave ecotourism development

among cave and ecotourism

authorities and stakeholders

1) Cave ecotourism

development study

undertaken as basis of MOA

(the study investigates

potential cave ecotourism

nature products, strategy,

mechanisms, leadership,

inputs, participation and

partnership, and institutional

arrangements)

1) Conduct a comprehensive study of

Tinagusan Bat Cave exploration

ecotourism product

- Tinagusan Bat Cave

ecotourism study prepared

MCC, PCSD, NM,

DENR, LGU, DOT,

NHCP, Consultant

2) MOA drafted and signed

1) Develop a MOA governing

Tinagusan Bat Cave ecotourism

program

- MOA signed and entered

into

MCC, PCSD, NM,

DENR, LGU, DOT,

NHCP

H2. To formulate a code of

conduct for visitors of Tinagusan

Bat Cave and publication of the

same in conspicuous places

1) Code of conduct drafted

(with assistance from DOT)

1) Formulate code of conduct for cave

visitors in accordance with existing

policies

- Draft code of conduct on

cave visitation

NM, MCC, LGU,

PCSDS, DOT, Municipal

Tourism Office,

Provincial Tourism Office

2) Code of conduct discussed

among stakeholders

1) Presentation of code of conduct for

cave visitors to stakeholders

- Draft code of conduct

presented to community and

other stakeholders

NM, MCC, LGU,

PCSDS, MTO, PTO,

DOT

3) Code of conduct finalized

and adopted

1) Code of conduct for cave visitors

finalized and adopted by LGU

- Finalized code of conduct on

cave visitation MCC, LGU

H3. To study and make an

inventory of cave-associated

archaeological, anthropological,

geological, ecological, historical,

and Taytayanons cultural

features (including legends and

myths) which can be promoted

as tourism products

1) Study of Tinagusan Bat

cave features (archaeological,

cultural, anthropological,

ecological, historical) which

has strong potential for being

marketed as tourism products

1) Research on cave-associated and

other cultural site-specific features

- Cave features identified and

marketed for green tourism

NM, MCC, LGU, DOT,

NHCP, Academe

H4. To study and make an

inventory of other potential

tourism products in Batas Island

which can be tied up to

terrestrial cave exploration

1) Study of potential tourism

products in Batas Island and

surrounding area which may

include: island-hopping,

snorkeling, resort

development, scuba diving,

technical diving, dolphin

watching, and game fishing

1) Research on tourism products and

their viability

- High potential tourism

products around Tinagusan

Bat Cave identified

MCC, LGU, DOT, NGOs,

Academe

H5. To develop a cave guide checklist and appropriate

itinerary for Tinagusan Bat Cave

visitors

1) Cave guide checklist and

itinerary for guided tour of the cave (with appropriate

field tour routes within and

around the cave) developed

1) Formulate (a) checklist of dos and don’ts for cave guides and (b) tour

itinerary for cave visitors

- Cave guide checklist and

cave tour itinerary

NM, MCC, LGU, Cave Guides, Tourism Officers,

MTO, PTO, DOT

H6. To develop a cave field guide

with maps and photographs 1) Cave field guide produced

1) Design and production of cave field

guide

Cave field guide with

photographs and maps

PCSDS, MCC, LGUs,

NGOs, Community

H7. To train cave guides and

local tourism officers on cave

guiding skills, first aid training,

hospitality management, and

good practices on cave

ecotourism

1) Cave guides and tourism

officers trained on various

facets of green tourism in

caves

1) Training of cave guides and tourism

officers

- No. of cave guides and

tourism officers trained

MCC, LGU, Cave Guides,

Tourism Officers, MTO,

PTO, DOT

H8. To establish Tinagusan Bat

Cave Information and Education

Center or TBCIEC for briefing

of visitors/tourists and

promotion of Tinagusan Bat

Cave tourism products (Note:

cave stewards and protectors

and cave guides can double as

staff of TBCIEC)

1) Tinagusan Bat Cave

Information and Education

Center (TBCIEC)

established, staffed, and

provided with educational

and promotional materials

and equipment

1) Scout for possible location of SSIEC

building

- Building location

map/survey plan

MCC, LGU, Tourism

Officers, MTO, PTO,

DOT

2) Design building of SSIEC - Building design

MCC, LGU, Tourism

Officers, MTO, PTO,

DOT

3) Recruit staff of SSIEC and establish

compensation scheme - Staffing pattern

MCC, LGU, Tourism

Officers, MTO, PTO,

DOT, Cave Guides, Cave


4) Design interior of SSIEC and acquire educational and promotional

materials

- Interior design of SSIEC MCC, LGU, Tourism Officers, MTO

5) Training of SSIEC staff on handling

visitors - Trained SSIEC staff SSIEC Staff

H9. To construct/improve

tourism facilities in the area

(road/trail, visitor wash area,

comfort rooms, potable water

system) (Note: wash area and

comfort rooms can be

constructed inside the SSIEC)

1) Construction and

improvement of tourism

facilities

1) Find suitable location of tourism

facilities

- Location map/survey plan of

tourism facilities

MCC, LGU, DOT,

DPWH, PCSDS

2) Improve existing facilities and

build/construct new facilities - Built tourism facilities

MCC, LGU, DOT,

DPWH, PCSDS

3) Survey of potential homestays in the

cave area and training of homestay

operators

- Potential homestays

surveyed and their operators

training on visitor and

hospitality management

MCC, LGU, DOT,

Community

H10. To promote the tourism

products of Tinagusan Bat Cave

1) Cave tourism promotional

materials designed for

various media like print,

radio, television, brochures,

streamers, posters,

online/website, social

networking sites

1) Design and drafting of promotional

materials for Tinagusan Bat Cave green

tourism

- Produced tourism

promotional materials

Provincial Tourism

Office, DOT, Municipal

Tourism Office

2) Cave tourism promotional

materials disseminated

1) Print, broadcast, distribute, publish,

and post cave tourism promotional

materials

- Distributed tourism

promotional materials and no.

of individuals/communities

reached by promotional

materials

PTO, MTO, DOT,

Tourism establishments in

Palawan (including

resorts, hotels, restaurants,

travel agencies, and tour

operators)

3) Promotional signage built

and installed in strategic places within the

municipality, in Puerto

Princesa City, and near the

cave

1) Production and installation of a

sturdy signage advertising the features

of Tinagusan Bat Cave

- Signage produced and

installed in strategic sites

Provincial Tourism

Office, DOT, Municipal

Tourism Office

H11. To conduct a willingness to

pay (WTP) study for potential

visitors of Tinagusan Bat Cave

which can serve as basis of a

visitor/user fee

1) WTP for visiting

Tinagusan Bat Cave

determined

1) Contingent valuation study of "non-

use value" of Tinagusan Bat Cave - WTP study conducted

Academe, Specialists,

Researchers, Research

Institutions, NM, PCSDS

H12. To enact an ordinance

imposing a reasonable cave

visitor/user's fee (using WTP

study as basis)

1) Municipal ordinance on

cave user's fee enacted

1) SB deliberations and public hearing

on proposed user's fee ordinance

- Minutes of SB session and

public hearing LGU, MCC/ECAN Board

2) Passage of an ordinance on the

imposition of Tinagusan Bat Cave

user's fee

- Municipal ordinance on

Tinagusan Bat Cave user's fee MCC, LGU, DOT

H13. To establish a transparent

system of collection, financial

accounting/auditing, and income

sharing from the use of

Tinagusan Bat Cave (consistent

with provisions of RA 7160 and

RA 9593)

1) A fair and equitable

income sharing and financial

accounting system for

Tinagusan Bat Cave

institutionalized

1) Roundtable discussions and

deliberations leading to a signed MOA

among LGU (through MCC/ECAN

Board), Community, DOT/TIEZA,

PCSD, and NM establishing income

sharing and collection and auditing

system for the proceeds of the use of

Tinagusan Bat Cave

- MOA on income sharing

signed

LGU, MCC/ECAN

Board, Municipal

Treasurer's Office,

PCSD/S, NM,

DOT/TIEZA

I1. To identify (a) livelihood

project options (compatible with

cave protection, conservation,

and soft impact ecotourism such

as tourism services/souvenir

making and organic farming)

and (b) beneficiaries of livelihood

project around Tinagusan Bat

Cave

1) Sustainable livelihood

program compatible with

sustainable cave use

implemented

1) Livelihood needs assessment and

selection of potential beneficiaries

- Livelihood development plan

for Tinagusan Bat Cave

LGU, MCC/ECAN

Board, PCSDS,

Community, DSWD,

NGOs, TESDA, DTI

I2. To provide financial and

material support to livelihood

beneficiaries

1) Livelihood development

plan funded and implemented

on the ground

1) Fund sourcing for livelihood project

implementation

- Financial and material

support secured for livelihood

project

Municipal LGU,

Provincial LGU, Funding

Agencies and Institutions

(e.g., USAID, ADB,

World Bank, GIZ), DTI

2) Monitoring and evaluation of

livelihood implementation

- Monitoring report on

livelihood implementation MCC

I3. To train livelihood

beneficiaries on financial

management

1) Beneficiaries trained on

financial management

1) Training on financial management

for livelihood beneficiaries

- Financial management

training for livelihood

beneficiaries held

POs, DTI, MCC,

Community

Table 8. Detailed six-year work plan

OBJECTIVES RESPONSIBILITY

2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020

Q

1

Q

2

Q

3

Q

4

Q

1

Q

2

Q

3

Q

4

Q

1

Q

2

Q

3

Q

4

Q

1

Q

2

Q

3

Q

4

Q

1

Q

2

Q

3

Q

4

Q

1

Q

2

Q

3

Q

4

A. Policy Reform and Development

A1. To implement Tinagusan Bat Cave Management Plan (TBCMP)

1) Presentation of the TBCMP before the

community, barangay LGU, municipal LGU,

MCC, NM, DOT, PCSD, and other

stakeholders LGU, MCC/ECAN

Board, PCSDS,

DOT, Other

Stakeholders

2) Adoption of the TBCMP by the LGU

3) Integration of TBCMP to the municipal

CLUP

4) Implementation of the actions prescribed

in the TBCMP

5) Information, Education, Communication

(IEC) on the TBCMP

A2. To review existing PCSD policy on caves***

1) Review of the legal provisions and

institutional mechanisms contained in PCSD

Admin Order No. 8

PCSD/S, PCMPCB

2) Approval of amendments to PCSD Admin

Order No. 8

A3. To regulate mass tourism, extractive activities, and research in caves of Taytay and the whole Palawan ***

1) Dialogue of concerned agencies to come

up with a provincial policy on extractive cave

activities and researches

PCSD/S,

PCMPCC, NM,

DENR-PAWB,

NHCP, LGU

2) Drafting of a municipal ordinance

adopting the provisions of Section 30 of RA

10066 and RA 9147

3) SB deliberations and public hearing on

proposed ordinance regulating cave activities

4) Passage of an ordinance on activities in

caves of Taytay

A4. To strengthen the Municipal Cave Committee (MCC) and form a local management body that will administer the implementation of the TBCMP***

1) Strengthening of the MCC and creating a

management body for the Taraw Caves in

Batas Island, Taytay LGU, MCC/ECAN

Board

2) Conduct regular MCC meeting to discuss

the implementation of TBCMP and other

issues

B. Human Resources Development

B1. To capacitate members of MCC and ECAN Board on cave governance and ecological concepts***

1) Attend training on cave governance,

planning, and management

MCC/ECAN

Board, PCSDS

B2. To capacitate local residents living near Tinagusan Bat Cave about the importance and benefits of Tinagusan Bat Cave conservation and their role as protectors of cave

1) Attend general training on cave protection

and stewardship MCC, Community,

Barangay LGU

B3. To recruit and capacitate "cave stewards and protectors" among local residents who will look after the cave, ensure its security, and perform regular cave inspection and clean up

1) Training of cave stewards and protectors MCC, Community,

Barangay LGU,

Cave Stewards and

Protectors

2) Deputation of cave stewards and

protectors

B4. To attend national and regional cave conferences, seminars, trainings, and workshops***

1) Attend cave conventions MCC, LGU,

PCSDS, Cave

Stewards and

Protectors

B5. To visit existing cave systems under sustainable management***

1) Lakbay-Aral MCC, LGU,

PCSDS, Cave

Stewards and

Protectors

B6. To procure caving equipment for use by cave guides, cave stewards and protectors, and CPEOs

1) Canvass and buying of caving equipment MCC, LGU,

CPEO, Cave

Stewards and

Protectors

B7. To purchase enforcement devices and equipments for CPEOs

1) Canvass and buying of cave enforcement

devices and equipments MCC, LGU, CPEO

C. Research and Development

C1. To improve basic knowledge on Tinagusan Bat Cave ecosystem including its socioeconomic setting

1) Conduct of cave research in various

disciplines Specialists and

Researchers from

the Academe,

Research

Institutions, NM,

NHCP, PCSD/S,

NGOs, NGAs,

MCC, LGU

2) Presentation of research findings to MCC

and local residents

D. IEC and Advocacy

D1. To implement an IEC and Advocacy Plan for Tinagusan Bat Cave protection, protection, and management

1) Data gathering and conduct of workshops

to prepare an IEC and Advocacy Plan MCC, LGU,

PCSDS,

Community

2) Writing of the IEC and Advocacy Plan

3) Documentation of the cave through

photography and video

MCC, LGU,

PCSDS

4) Preparation of Tinagusan Bat Cave IEC

materials MCC, LGU,

PCSDS,

Community,

DENR

5) Publication, broadcast, and distribution of

Tinagusan Bat Cave IEC materials

6) Undertake Taytay cave pride campaign***

7) Teaching of cave protection and

conservation in class*** DepEd, MCC

E. Cave Protection and Management

E1. To enter into MOA on cave ecosystem conservation, protection, and resource use of Tinagusan Bat Cave

1) Conduct of relocation survey and

Dialogues/roundtable discussions with all

land owner/claimant of Tinagusan Bat Cave

and resolution of any land use conflicts PCSD, LGUs,

Community, Land

Claimant

2) Preparation of draft MOA specifying

responsibilities and expected output of each

stakeholder, roundtable discussions on MOA

contents, and MOA signing

E2. To enhance vegetative cover of the area surrounding the cave

1) Enrichment planting of cave environs DENR, MCC,

LGU, Community

2) Monitoring of trees planted

3) Development of a scheme where planters

of trees will be given incentives

4) Nursery establishment and

maintenance***

5) Seedling production***

E3. To deputize Cave Protection Enforcement Officer (CPEO)***

1) Design of training module for CPEOs PCSDS

2) Recruitment and training of CPEOs from

barangay and municipal LGUs, local NGOs,

community organizations, IPs, volunteers,

and law enforcement agencies (PNP, AFP,

NBI)

PCSDS, MCC,

LGUs, NGOs,

Community, PNP,

AFP, NBI

3) Deputation of CPEOs PCSD, PCSDS,

MCC, CPEO

E4. To classify Tinagusan Bat Cave as Class II cave

1) Submission of technical recommendations

to PCSD for cave classification PCSD/S, PCMPCC

2) Submission of PCSD resolution to DENR

MIMAROPA for inclusion of Tinagusan Bat

Cave in the national list of assessed and

classified caves

PCSD/S,

PCMPCC, DENR

MIMAROPA,

RCC(?), NCC

3) Information drive about the classification

of the cave and its specific

chambers/passages

LGU, MCC/ECAN

Board

E5. To evaluate and monitor the implementation of the TBCMP and assess cave management effectiveness

1) Semestral evaluation and monitoring of

TBCMP accomplishments

MCC, PCSDS,

Monitoring and

Evaluation Team

(to be created),

Academe

2) Annual assessment of cave management

effectiveness

F. Waste Management

F1. To clean up the cave and surrounding areas regularly and restore the cave's aesthetics

1) Mobilization and clean up of cave wastes,

graffiti, and vandals

MCC, LGU,

Community,

DepEd, NGOs

G. Zoning of Cave and Cave Periphery

G1. To clearly define the boundaries/limits of Tinagusan Bat Cave management area

1) Survey and mapping of the vicinity of

Tinagusan Bat Cave and "impact zones"

around it

MCC, LGU,

Community,

PCSDS, PCMPCC

2) Presentation of Tinagusan Bat Cave

management boundary to stakeholders

3) Printing of cave location maps and posting

of the map in the locality

4) Boundary demarcation using suitable

natural monuments or non-destructive

concrete monuments AFTER seeking advice

from experts

G2. To prepare existing land use/land cover (LU-LC) map around the cave

1) Data gathering, field work, ground

truthing, map production, social ground

truthing

MCC, LGU,

Community,

PCSDS

G3. To gather demographic and cultural data of the area

1) Gathering of demographic and cultural

data of Tinagusan Bat Cave area

MCC, LGU,

PCSDS

G4. To classify management zones around the cave using available information (LU-LC map) and through participatory cave management zoning

1) Participatory cave system zoning

MCC, LGU,

Community,

PCSDS

G5. To prescribe allowable and prohibited uses in each cave management zone

1) Participatory zones use prescription

MCC, LGU,

Community,

PCSDS

G6. To pass a local resolution prescribing the zones and uses of Tinagusan Bat Cave management area

1) SB deliberations, reconnaissance, and

preparation of draft cave management zones

map and resolution SB, MCC, LGU,

Community,

PCSDS

2) Public hearing on cave management zones

map

3) Passage of a local ordinance delineating

cave management zones and prescribing uses

per zone

H. Green Tourism and Cave Visitor Management

H1. To enter into a joint MOA on cave ecotourism development among cave and ecotourism authorities and stakeholders

1) Conduct a comprehensive study of

Tinagusan Bat Cave exploration ecotourism

product

MCC, PCSD, NM, DENR, LGU,

DOT, NHCP,

Consultant

2) Develop a MOA governing Tinagusan Bat

Cave ecotourism program

H2. To formulate a code of conduct for visitors of Tinagusan Bat Cave and publication of the same in conspicuous places

1) Formulate code of conduct for cave

visitors in accordance with existing policies

(with assistance from DOT)

NM, MCC, LGU,

PCSDS, DOT,

Municipal Tourism

Office (MTO),

Provincial Tourism

Office (PTO)

2) Presentation of code of conduct for cave

visitors to stakeholders

3) Code of conduct for cave visitors finalized

and adopted by LGU

H3. To study and make an inventory of cave-associated archaeological, anthropological, geological, ecological, historical, and Taytayanon cultural features which can be promoted as

tourism products

1) Research on cave-associated and other

cultural site-specific features

NM, MCC, LGU,

DOT, NHCP,

Academe

H4. To study and make an inventory of other potential tourism products in Batas Island which can be tied up to terrestrial cave exploration***

1) Research on tourism products and their

viability

MCC, LGU, DOT,

NGOs, Academe

H5. To develop a cave guide checklist and appropriate itinerary for Tinagusan Bat Cave visitors

1) Formulate (a) checklist of dos and don’ts

for cave guides and (b) tour itinerary for cave

visitors

NM, MCC, LGU,

Cave Guides,

Tourism Officers,

MTO, PTO, DOT

H6. To develop a cave field guide with maps and photographs

1) Design and production of cave field guide

PCSDS, MCC,

LGUs, NGOs,

Community

H7. To train cave guides and local tourism officers on cave guiding skills, first aid training, hospitality management, and good practices on cave ecotourism

1) Training of cave guides and tourism

officers

MCC, LGU, Cave

Guides, Tourism

Officers, MTO,

PTO, DOT

H8. To establish Tinagusan Bat Cave Information and Education Center or SSIEC for briefing of visitors/tourists and promotion of Tinagusan Bat Cave tourism products***

1) Scout for possible location of SSIEC

building MCC, LGU,

Tourism Officers,

MTO, PTO, DOT

2) Design building of SSIEC

3) Recruit staff of SSIEC and establish

compensation scheme

MCC, LGU, Tourism Officers,

MTO, PTO, DOT,

Cave Guides, Cave

Stewards and

Protectors

4) Design interior of SSIEC and acquire

educational and promotional materials

MCC, LGU,

Tourism Officers,

MTO

5) Training of SSIEC staff on handling

visitors SSIEC Staff

H9. To construct/improve tourism facilities in the area (road/trail, visitor wash area, comfort rooms, potable water system)

1) Find suitable location of tourism facilities

MCC, LGU, DOT,

DPWH, PCSDS

2) Improve existing facilities and

build/construct new facilities (road/trail, visitor wash area, comfort rooms, potable

water system)

3) Survey of potential homestays in the cave

area and training of homestay operators

MCC, LGU, DOT,

Community

H10. To promote the tourism products of Tinagusan Bat Cave (Note: The promotional materials can be merged with the ones for Tinagusan Bat Cave)

1) Design and drafting of promotional

materials for Tinagusan Bat Cave green

tourism

Provincial Tourism

Office, DOT,

Municipal Tourism

Office

2) Print, broadcast, distribute, publish, and

post cave tourism promotional materials

PTO, MTO, DOT,

Tourism

establishments in

Palawan (including

resorts, hotels,

restaurants, travel

agencies, and tour

operators)

3) Building and Installation of a sturdy

signage advertising the features of Tinagusan

Bat Cave

H11. To conduct a willingness to pay (WTP) study for potential visitors of Tinagusan Bat Cave which can serve as basis of a visitor/user fee

1) Contingent valuation study of "non-

use/existence value" of Tinagusan Bat Cave

Academe,

Specialists,

Researchers,

Research

Institutions, NM,

PCSDS

H12. To enact an ordinance imposing a reasonable cave visitor/user's fee

1) SB deliberations and public hearing on

proposed user's fee ordinance LGU, MCC/ECAN

Board, DOT

2) Passage of an ordinance on the imposition

of Tinagusan Bat Cave user's fee

H13. To establish a transparent system of collection, financial accounting/auditing, and income sharing from the use of Tinagusan Bat Cave (consistent with provisions of RA 7160

and RA 9593)

1) Roundtable discussions and deliberations leading to a signed MOA among LGU

(through MCC/ECAN Board), Community,

DOT/TIEZA, PCSD, and NM establishing

income sharing and collection and auditing

system for the proceeds of the use of

Tinagusan Bat Cave

LGU, MCC/ECAN

Board, Municipal

Treasurer's Office,

PCSD/S, NM,

DOT/TIEZA

I. Livelihood Development

I1. To identify (a) livelihood project options (compatible with cave protection, conservation, and soft impact ecotourism such as tourism services/souvenir making and organic farming)

and (b) beneficiaries of livelihood project around Tinagusan Bat Cave

1) Livelihood needs assessment and selection

of potential beneficiaries

LGU, MCC/ECAN

Board, PCSDS,

Community,

DSWD, NGOs,

TESDA, DTI

I2. To provide financial and material support to livelihood beneficiaries

1) Fund sourcing for livelihood project

implementation

Municipal LGU,

Provincial LGU,

Funding Agencies

and Institutions

(e.g., USAID,

ADB, World Bank,

GIZ), DTI

2) Monitoring and evaluation of livelihood

implementation MCC

I3. To train livelihood beneficiaries on financial management

1) Training on financial management for

livelihood beneficiaries***

POs, DTI, MCC,

Community

6 ADMINISTRATION OF THE MANAGEMENT PLAN

6.1 ORGANIZATION STRUCTURE

The suggested organization structure of Tinagusan Bat Cave (Figure 26) is

composed of members from municipal, provincial, and national government

agencies as well as other stakeholders and community leaders. The main actor will

be the Taytay Municipal Cave Committee (TMCC) which is supported by four

committees, namely: the (1) Scientific, (2) Development, (3) Promotion, and (4)

Protection and Conservation Committees. The PCMPCB and the PCSD will act as

oversight bodies over the TMCC. The Municipality of Taytay is attached to the

TMCC as co-implementer of cave management program.

Figure 26. Organization chart of Tinagusan Bat Cave management structure (after

Mohd Shafeea Leman et al. 2007)24

.

The TMCC will be the lead management and coordinative body providing direction

and logistic support to cave management. It will be under the management of

PCMPCB and overseen by the PCSD. The PCSD, through the PCSD Staff, will

monitor and provide necessary advice on overall sustainable development of the

cave.

The TMCC will develop and maintain the cave‘s infrastructures, facilities, and

activities. Its composition will include professionals from various fields including,

24 Mohd Shafeea Leman, Kamarulzaman Abdul Ghani, Ibrahim Komoo, and Norhayati Ahmad (eds.). 2007. Langkawi Geopark. Institute for Environment and Development (LESTARI) and Langkawi Development Authority (LADA).

Palawan Council for Sustainable Development

Palawan Caves Management, Protection and Conservation Board

Taytay Municipal Cave Committee

Municipal Government of Taytay

Scientific Committee Development

Committee Promotion Committee

Protection and Conservation Committee

administrative, and enforcement officers. It will be led by the municipal mayor of

Taytay or his representative.

Several institutions will play key roles as members of TMCC. They include the

National Museum, the Department of Tourism, the National Historical Commission

of the Philippines, and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

The Scientific Committee is responsible for the conduct of researches. The NM will

lead any archaeological and anthropological researches about the cave. The DOT,

on the other hand, will lead the tourism development of the cave under the

Development Committee and Promotion Committee. The NHCP will lead the

research into the historical background of the cave. The DENR will be a member of

the Conservation and Protection Committee. NGOs and members of the private

sector will also play key roles in cave management as part of the TMCC.

The four committees may be expanded to include individuals and advocates in the

field of environmental resource management, socioeconomics, community

development, history, education, and culture. The following are the roles of the four

committees:

The Scientific Committee is responsible for providing technical advice and

suggestions on scientific aspects in cave development and conservation. It may include members from the NM, PCSD, academe (e.g., representatives

from Department of Education, Palawan State University, Western Philippines University, and Holy Trinity University), and other research institutions.

The Development Committee is responsible for planning the development

of the cave. Its members may include representatives from the PCSD, municipal and barangay LGUs, DOT, Municipal Engineering Office, Municipal Planning and Development Office, Municipal Tourism Office,

Provincial Tourism Office, and community leaders.

The Protection and Conservation Committee is responsible for

recommending areas for conservation within and outside the cave and for planning, prescribing, and enforcing measures to conserve and protect the

cave. Its members may include representatives from the DENR, Municipal Environment and Natural Resource Office, PCSD, law enforcement agencies, and other local environmental organizations.

The Promotion Committee is responsible for promoting the cave as a

tourism product at the local, national, and international levels. It is headed by the DOT and may have members coming from local tourism offices, Municipal Information Office, Philippine Information Agency, hotel

associations, tour guides, and tour operators.

In addition to these committees, other key actors will constitute the support

personnel of the cave and will be supervised by the TMCC.

The cave guides will assist visitors to the cave and provide educational and

technical information about the cave.

The cave stewards and protectors (CSP) will be community members who

will periodically clean up the cave, guard it, and be part of the IEC activities.

The CPEOs will be deputized law enforcement personnel in charge of

apprehending violators of environmental laws within and outside the cave

and in keeping the peace and security of the cave.

The staff of the proposed Cave Information and Education Center will

maintain the cave showroom and perform services to advance the promotion of cave education and extension.

6.2 BUDGETARY REQUIREMENTS

The six-year budget for the management of Tinagusan Bat Cave is shown in

Annex I.

6.3 FUND SOURCING

There are several sources of funds that may be tapped for the implementation of

the Cave Management Plan.

Under AO No. 8, the PCSD may establish a Special Trust Fund for the

management of caves and cave resources under the Caves Act.

The cave visitor user‘s fee that may be imposed based on studies on

Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES) and contingent valuation study of

the cave‘s existence value (aesthetic, cultural, archaeological, and historical value)25.

Regular budget of government agencies under the General Appropriations

Act

Contributions from civil society and the private sector

Income and fees from tourism establishments, homestays, and resorts that

may be built around the cave.

Income from souvenir items such as postcards, cave-inspired artworks,

Grant support from various organizations for projects focused on sustainable resource development.

Bilateral and multi-lateral donor institutions such as JICA, the World Bank,

ADB, AusAID, USAID, UNDP, UNEP, EU, GEF, and GIZ, which can be tapped for environment and sustainable development programs and projects.

Foreign embassies and international foundations and NGOs.

Local foundations and NGOs.

The TMCC needs to devise and develop financial mechanisms to sustain the

management of the cave. This may employ cooperative models, counterpart

funding or fund matching, and the creation of a project development unit which will

25 See for example Gonzales, M.R.A.A., and A. Miraflores, 2013. “The Existence Value of Tabon Caves Complex”. Paper presented to BIMP-EAGA Conference 2013. 16-17 December 2013, A & A Plaza Hotel, Puerto Princesa City.

aggressively develop project proposals and undertake fund sourcing from external

sources.

6.4 MONITORING AND EVALUATION

A first party monitoring and evaluation of Tinagusan Bat Cave Management Plan

(TBCMP) accomplishments will be undertaken. The TMCC will form a multi-party

Monitoring and Evaluation Team which will evaluate the output indicators

contained in the TBCMP and recommend measures and strategies for a more

efficient management and administration of the cave. First party monitoring will be

done midyear and at the end of the year.

Second and third party monitoring of TBCMP implementation are encouraged. The

institutions who are themselves part of the cave management regime are

encouraged to do their own auditing of the TBCMP. Third party institutions, like

those from the Academe and research institutions within or outside Palawan, are

welcome to conduct their own monitoring and evaluation provided that they secure

necessary clearance from concerned authorities. Evaluation at these three levels

will promote transparency in cave governance, fiscal prudence, and accountability

on spending decisions.

Documents

Tinagusan Bat Cave Management Plan 2015 2020 Plans and Policies for 2014/13...Tinagusan Bat Cave Management Plan 2015 – 2020 Taraw Caves, Batas Island, Bgy. Batas, Taytay, Palawan