DENR Region 10 promotes protection of ‘sensitive’ caves

Two towns in Bukidnon province will begin start formulating cave management plans after the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region 10 office identified and assessed at least two caves with sensitive geologic value, the Philippine Information Agency reported.

DENR's Protected Area Management and Biodiversity Conservation Section (PAMBCS) Regional Cave Assessment Team said that the two caves have been officially classified under Class II.

The caves are the Salawaw Cave found in Barangay Concepcion, Valencia City in Bukidnon and the Sumalsag Cave found in Barangay Kilabong, Vista Villa, Sumilao, Bukidnon.

Caves classified under “Class II” have sensitive geologic values or high quality ecosystems, as well as portions with hazardous conditions. These caves may be closed seasonally or permanently, or may be open only to experienced cavers or guided educational tours.

DENR Regional Director Ruth M. Tawantawan  said that the DENR continues to implement the management, protection and conservation of caves and cave resources together with our cave coordinating partners, pursuant to Republic Act 9072, or the National Caves & Cave Resources Management & Protection Act.

As a result of the assessment, the municipalities of Manolo Fortich and Sumilao, Bukidnon prepared a Cave Management Plan for Sumalsag Cave.

The Salawaw Cave, meanwhile, was assessed in February 2015 by the PAMBCS Regional Cave Assessment Team in collaboration with Valencia City government's Rescue Team. — BAP/DVM, GMA News