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Hundred Caves Management Plan 2016 – 2020

Table o f Contents

L i s t o f T a b l e s .................................................................................................................................. ii

L i s t o f F i g u r e s ............................................................................................................................... iii

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY .................................................................................................................... 1

ACRONYMS ......................................................................................................................................... 4

CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................... 6

1.0 Statement of Policies (National and International) .................................................................... 6

1.1 Historical Background ............................................................................................................... 6

1.2 Purpose of the Plan .................................................................................................................... 7

1.3 Brief Description of the Planning process ................................................................................. 7

1.4 Rationale .................................................................................................................................... 9

CHAPTER 2: AREA PROFILE ........................................................................................................... 10

2.1 Geographic Location ................................................................................................................ 10

2.2 Biophysical Profile................................................................................................................... 12

2.3 Socio-cultural Profile ............................................................................................................... 28

2.4 Economic Profile ..................................................................................................................... 32

2.5 Political Profile ........................................................................................................................ 33

CHAPTER 3: LEGAL STATUS AND REGULATIONS/FRAMEWORK ........................................ 36

CHAPTER 4: PAST AND CURRENT INITIATIVES ....................................................................... 44

CHAPTER 5: SITUATIONAL ANALYSIS ....................................................................................... 46

CHAPTER 6: THE MANAGEMENT PLAN ...................................................................................... 49

CHAPTER 7: IMPLEMENTATION SCHEME .................................................................................. 72

CHAPTER 8: MONITORING AND EVALUATION AND FEEDBACK MECHANISMS ............. 87

CHAPTER 9: BUDGETARY REQUIREMENTS .............................................................................. 88

REFERENCES ..................................................................................................................................... 90

ANNEXES ........................................................................................................................................... 91

Annex A. National legislations with significant implications on cave planning and management 91

Annex B. Cave-related administrative orders issued by PCSD………………………………..... 98

Annex C. Cave-related resolutions issued by PCSD ................................................................... 103

Annex D. Mandate of agencies in the implementation of RA 9072 ............................................ 106

Annex E. Photo Documentation .................................................................................................. 109

Annex F. Five-Year Budget for Hundred Caves Management ………………………………... 105

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Li s t o f T ab l es

Table 1. Data Summary of Hundred Caves, Tagabinet, Puerto Princesa City ..................................... 16

Table 2. List of Avian Species outside the Cave .................................................................................. 22

Table 3. List of Mammals outside the Cave ......................................................................................... 23

Table 4. List of Mammals inside the Cave ........................................................................................... 24

Table 5. List of Flora Species outside Cave ......................................................................................... 26

Table 6. Number of Households in Tagabinet, 2009 ........................................................................... 29

Table 7. Population Distribution by Sex, Barangay Tagabinet, City of Puerto Princesa, 2009 ........... 29

Table 8. Population by Age, by Gender Disaggregation 2009 ............................................................. 30

Table 9. List of local ordinances and other issuances .......................................................................... 43

Table 10. The major outcomes of the Cave Management Plan ............................................................ 50

Table 11. Hundred Caves Management Action Plan ........................................................................... 52

Table 12. Detailed Work Plan .............................................................................................................. 75

Table 13. Local and International possible funding sources ............................................................... 89

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Li s t o f F ig ures

Figure 1. Speleothems found inside the Cave......................................................................................... 1

Figure 2. The Hundred Caves ................................................................................................................ 6

Figure 3. Process of Cave Management Planning ................................................................................. 8

Figure 4. Location Map of Hundred Caves .......................................................................................... 11

Figure 5. The Hundred Caves including the Agricultural land surrounding it .................................... 12

Figure 6. New Alternative Spatial Strategies for Bgy. Cabayugan Cluster Map ................................. 13

Figure 7. One of the Passages inside the Cave .................................................................................... 14

Figure 8. Speleothems found inside the Cave....................................................................................... 14

Figure 9. Vandals and graffiti along the Cave walls and flooring ....................................................... 15

Figure 10. Isometric view of Hundred Caves ....................................................................................... 17

Figure 11. Plan view map of Hundred Caves ...................................................................................... 18

Figure 12. Profile view of Hundred Caves ........................................................................................... 19

Figure 13. Cave mouth /main entrance ................................................................................................ 20

Figure 14. Cave Mouth (inside view) ................................................................................................... 20

Figure 15. Second cave opening (outside view) ................................................................................... 20

Figure 16. Second cave opening (inside view) ..................................................................................... 20

Figure 17. Other lesser known fauna found outside the cave .............................................................. 23

Figure 18. Nests found inside the cave ................................................................................................. 24

Figure 19. Miniopterus australis .......................................................................................................... 25

Figure 20. Megaderma spasma ............................................................................................................ 25

Figure 21. Macroglossus minimus ........................................................................................................ 25

Figure 22. Eonycteris spelaea .............................................................................................................. 25

Figure 23. Cynopterus brachyotis (Short-nosed fruit bat), Family Pteropodidae .............................. 25

Figure 24. Rhinolopus virgo ................................................................................................................. 26

Figure 25. Miniopteris australis ........................................................................................................... 26

Figure 26. Rhinolophus creaghi ........................................................................................................... 26

Figure 27. ECAN Map of the Hundred Caves ...................................................................................... 38

Figure 28. Objectives of the Management Plan ................................................................................... 50

Figure 29. Organization chart of Hundred Caves management structure ........................................... 72

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

This management plan for Hundred Caves is developed and prepared by the Palawan Council

for Sustainable Development Staff (PCSDS) in coordination with the City Tourism Office,

Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park – Project Management Office (PPSRNP-

PMO), Centre for Sustainability, Barangay Council of Tagabinet and stakeholders.

On September 15-24, 2014, PCSD Staff together with PSU Anthropologist Dr. Jun G.

Cayron and PPSRNP Biologist Mr. Nevong Puna and selected members of Tagabinet

Neighborhood Tourism association (TNTA) conducted cave identification, assessment,

survey and mapping, and classification of Hundred Caves in Barangay Tagabinet, Puerto

Princesa City, Palawan. The Cave Assessment and Classification Report is used in

determining the resources and status of resources within the cave. The report contains the

physiographical profile, cave mapping, rapid archaeological and ecological assessment, and

socioeconomic information pertinent to developing a plan that integrates ecology and

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

and around the cave system.

Hundred Caves is located in Barangay Tagabinet, Puerto Princesa City and has geographic

coordinates of N 10⁰ 04' 55.4", E 118⁰ 50' 56.8". It is bounded on the north by Barangay

Cabayugan and Marufinas, Barangay Maoyon and Buenavista on the south, Barangay San

Rafael on the east and Barangay Buenavista and West Philippine Sea on the west. It is a

solution-type of cave, the most frequently occurring type of cave in the Philippines. It is

formed by chemical reaction between circulating groundwater and bedrock composed of

limestone or dolomite. Hundred caves is a horizontal cave with an elevation of 80 meters

above sea level. It is accessible by land 1.15 hours from the center of Puerto Princesa City

and by foot for about 15-minutes trail walk from the cemented road system going to Sitio

Sabang (take off point to PPSRNP). Its straight distance is 400 meters parallel to the road

system with second growth forest over limestone surrounding its periphery. The surrounding

land development is devoted to agriculture such as rice paddies and farm lots.

This cave system is multi-storied and possesses a series of continuous narrow “maze-like”

and/or winding interconnecting passages and vertical pitches which are both challenging and

beautiful. Speleothems are well defined and various concretions were present. The passages

of the cave network below contain knee-deep water and some of those dry passages have

alluvium deposits cemented in blocks by chemical/mechanical weathering. Mini-rimstone

dams are abundant as well as columns and draperies. Special feature of speleogen, such as

cave scallops (flute casts) are found on the walls and floors of the main entrance. Rock

pendants also exist in various scales. The cave system also has a bat chamber located at the

end of the main passage.

Based on the characteristics of the cave, Hundred Caves is classified as Class III, limited to

low impact ecotourism activity. Class III caves are generally safe to inexperienced visitor

with no known threatened species, archeological, geological, natural history, cultural and

historical values. Subzones within the cave were further classified under restricted and

controlled zones. Based on its classification, Hundred Caves and its surrounding area can

carry soft impact ecotourism activities like cave tour/exploration and picture taking.

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Among the threats to the Hundred Cave are the uncontrolled tourism and exploration

activities, and uncontrolled edible birds nest collection which resulted to presence of cave

hazards, destruction of rock formations, presence of vandals and graffiti’s along the walls

and flooring of the cave system. There are also reports that the lack of governance and

enforcement implementation as well as lack of human resource poses threat to the cave and

cave ecosystem. Entrance in the cave has to be regulated to cushion the impact of “mass

tourism”. Delineating a buffer zone around the Hundred Caves as well as development of

other activities outside the cave can minimize the existing and potential adverse effects of

economic activities. Establishment of a governing body that will implement and monitor

activities in the area is also needed.

To ensure that the plan will be acceptable to the stakeholders and that it addresses the

concerns of the community, a participatory planning workshop was conducted in April 7-8,

2015 through the facilitation of the PCSDS. It was participated by 63 members of the

Tagabinet Neighborhood Tourism Association (TNTA), representatives from the Puerto

Princesa City Tourism Office, PPSRNP-PMO, Centre for Sustainability and barangay

officials of the Barangay Tagabinet. Situation of the cave is verified during the process

through the SWOT Analysis - strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. It was agreed

during the planning workshop that the management plan will be geared towards ecotourism

purposes.

On July 7, 2015, a validation workshop was conducted to present the result of the

management plan to the stakeholders and came up with the plan’s vision, mission and

objectives. Based on the discussion, stakeholders agreed with the plan and they will endorse

the same to the barangay council.

The developed Hundred Caves Management Plan (HCMP) is designed to address the

environmental and socioeconomic threats to the cave, as well as the challenges posed by a

lack of cave governance structure and livelihood mechanisms that can reduce the pressures to

the cave. To achieve this, the Plan uses the following management framework.

Hundred Caves Sustainable Management Framework

Established "Green Tourism" program for

cave

Strengthened

cave governance, stewardship

and advocacy

Reduced cave threats and enhanced cave ecosystem security

Ecological Integrity and stakeholders’ empowermen

t

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Following this framework, the goal of the Management Plan is to develop an

ecotourism program for Hundred Caves to ensure ecological integrity of the cave

and its ecosystem through sustainable management of an empowered local

community group thereby providing alternative source of livelihood.

This plan has three interlinked outcomes as follows:

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 prescribed strategic actions to attain these objectives are divided into nine

components:

1. Policy Reform and Development

2. Human Resources Development

3. Research and Development

4. IEC and Advocacy

5. Cave Protection and Management

6. Waste Management

7. Zoning of Cave and Cave Periphery

8. Green Tourism and Cave Visitor Management

9. Livelihood Development

Under each component, a set of actions are given with a corresponding timeline and

budgetary requirement. Due to the many uncertainties and constraints inherent in the cave

resource management, it is recommended that an adaptive management approach is used to

guide the interventions. The scope of the plan is limited by the lack of preparatory activities

for ecotourism development, and the preponderance of recent cave-related and ecotourism

policies which may require integration and harmonization prior to their application on the

ground.

Many critical factors are required for a smooth implementation of HCMP, foremost of which

are: (1) the active involvement of the concerned authorities and agencies in the initiative, (2)

the openness of the community to the regulations and socioeconomic changes that will be

introduced when the plan is implemented, and (3) their cooperation to be engaged as cave

stewards and protectors. A lot can be accomplished if political commitments are in place and

Memorandums of Agreement (MOA) are signed.

The implementation of the plan can be a venue for collaboration among private and public

entities. It is also an opportunity to empower local communities through the sustainable

practice of green tourism. Financial assistance from an external source will go a long way

toward securing this green investment of cave management.

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ACRONYMS

AO – Administrative Order

CADC – Certificate of Ancestral Domain Claim

CBET - Community-Based Ecotourism

CBST – Community-Based Sustainable Tourism

CIEC – Cave Information and Education Center

CLUP – Comprehensive Land Use Plan

CPEO – Cave Protection and Enforcement Officer

CTO – City Tourism Office

CVMP – Cave Visitor Management Plan

DAO – DENR Administrative Order

DENR – Department of Environment and Natural Resources

DMC – DENR Memorandum Circular

DOLE – Department of Labor and Employment

DOT – Department of Tourism

DPWH – Department of Public Works and Highways

DSWD – Department of Social Welfare and Development

DTI – Department of Trade and Industry

EBN – Edible Bird’s Nest

ECAN – Environmentally Critical Areas Network

ENR – Environment and Natural Resources

FPIC – Free, Prior, and Informed Consent

HCMP – Hundred Caves Management Plan

IEC – Information and Education Campaign

IKSP – Indigenous Knowledge System and Practices

IUCN – International Union for Conservation of Nature

LGU – Local Government Unit

MAB – Man and the Biosphere Programme

MIMAROPA – Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, Palawan

NEDA – National Economic and Development Authority

NEDC – National Ecotourism Development Council

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NGO – Non-government Organization

NHCP – National Historical Commission of the Philippines

NIPAS – National Integrated Protected Areas System

NM – National Museum

PAGASA – Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration

PCMPCP – Palawan Cave Management, Protection and Conservation Program

PCSD – Palawan Council for Sustainable Development

PMO – Project Management Office

PPCC – Puerto Princesa Cave Committee

PPP – public-private partnerships

PPSRNP-PMO – Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park – Project Management Office

PPUR – Puerto Princesa Underground River

PTO – Provincial Tourism Office

RA – Republic Act

RITM – Research Institute on Tropical Medicine

SP – Sangguniang Panlungsod

SEP – Strategic Environmental Plan

TESDA – Technical Education and Skills Development Authority

TIEZA – Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority

TNTA – Tagabinet Neighborhood Tourism Association

UNESCO – United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization

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CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION

1.0 Statement of Policies (National and International)

Caves are protected nationally through the National Caves and Cave Resources Management

and Protection Act of 2001 or Republic Act 9072. 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”1.

To support the implementation of such law, several policies were also enacted such as Cave

Act Implementing Rules and Regulations (DAO 2003-29); Cave Classification Guidelines

and Manual (DMC 2007-04) and Guidelines in Treasure Hunting in Caves (DAO 2007-34).

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 Annex A.

1.1 Historical Background

1 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

November 2013]

Figure 2. The Hundred Caves

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The cave was first discovered in 1990’s when Mr. Bueg Lais, a Palaw’an native from

Barangay Abo-abo, Sofronio Española (Southern Palawan), came to Barangay Tagabinet in

search of Balinsasayaw or edible bird’s nests (EBN) as a source of livelihood. Recounting

how he discovered the gap/opening of the cave, it was early morning when he decided to

explore the karst area. Bueg spotted a swiftlet hovering around the limestone cliff feeding on

insects. He religiously followed the swiftlet’s flight path going inside the cave and ended up

discovering a crevice within the ledge of the limestone cliff. Without hesitation, Bueg slipped

into the crevice downwards inside the cave system. Alone and brave, he explored its passages

and its nooks and crannies, and finally discovered the presence of edible bird’s nests in

various locations. He continuously wandered inside the cave until finally in mid-afternoon,

he managed to find the cave exit. Since then, the cave is his source of edible bird’s nests (not

Aerodramus fuciphagus species) in scheduled basis. Averaging almost 2 kilos of EBN

collected during those times, composition were not made up of pure bird’s saliva instead

nests are made up of mixed with small twigs, hays and branches. Though he visited the cave

most of the time, Bueg Lais did not bother to name the cave but he is the original discoverer

of it (pers. comm. with Mr. Bueg Lais). Nobody really recounted the person who coined the

present cave name and it was only in year 2008 that PCSD staff heard the cave’s name as

“Hundred Caves”. According to the residents, the name of the karst formation represents the

numerous passages and outlets within the karst. The preserved cave formations and a

subterranean river encouraged the local community to develop this area for tourism.

1.2 Purpose of the Plan

This plan is formulated to be a guide in the management and development of the Hundred

Caves. Plan includes implementable actions coming from the local stakeholders to ensure

that this will not remain as a written document only, but will be beneficial to the community.

Once plan will be adopted and implemented, the following can be expected:

1. To undertake necessary measures to protect and conserve the cave ecosystem and its

surrounding environment

2. To develop tourism-related capacities of the community

3. To serve as an alternative livelihood and generate income for the stakeholders of

Hundred Caves

1.3 Brief Description of the Planning process

This Cave Management Plan is developed and prepared by the Palawan Council for

Sustainable Development Staff together with the Tagabinet Neighborhood Tourism

Association (TNTA) and other local stakeholders. 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. The

Cave Assessment and Classification Report prepared by PCSDS (2014) and produced in

collaboration with the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park – Project

Management Office (PPSRNP-PMO) is used in determining the resources and status of

resources within the cave. The report contains the physiographical profile, cave mapping,

rapid archaeological and ecological assessment, and socioeconomic information pertinent to

developing a plan that integrates ecology and biodiversity with economic concerns and

emphasizes the archaeology and local culture in and around the cave system.

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Result of the participatory planning workshop conducted in April 7-8, 2015 through the

facilitation of the PCSDS is the basis of most of the suggested interventions for the

sustainable development of the cave. Participants of the workshop are the 63 members of the

Tagabinet Neighborhood Tourism Association (TNTA), representatives from the Puerto

Princesa City Tourism Office, PPSRNP-PMO, Centre for Sustainability and barangay

officials of the Barangay Tagabinet. Situation of the cave is verified during the process

through the SWOT Analysis - strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. It was agreed

during the planning workshop that the management plan will be geared towards ecotourism

purposes. On July 7, 2015, a validation workshop was conducted to present the result of the

management plan to the stakeholders and came up with the plan’s vision, mission and

objectives. Based on the discussion, stakeholders agreed with the plan and they will endorse

the same to the barangay council.

This Cave Management Plan then is an offshoot of both scientific and community-based

investigations into the issues confronting Hundred Caves. Existing legal considerations and

institutional arrangements are also duly 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 3. Process of Cave Management Planning

CAVE CLASSIFICATION

AND ASSESSMENT

PARTICIPATORY

PLANNING WORKSHOP

REVIEW OF LEGAL AND INSTITUTIONAL

FRAMEWORKS

CAVE MANAGEMENT

PLAN

ADOPTION OF CAVE

MANAGEMENT PLAN

PLAN

IMPLEMENTATION

MONITORING AND

EVALUATION

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1.4 Rationale

The caves of Palawan are special geological heritage of ecological and cultural significance.

They preserve a record of the past and often play an important role in the ecology of the area.

Unique or critical records of natural history are contained in the caves. They offer distinct

cultural and aesthetic values and contribute to an understanding of the natural history of a

region.

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.

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CHAPTER 2: AREA PROFILE

2.1 Geographic Location

Hundred Caves is located in Barangay Tagabinet, Puerto Princesa City and has geographic

coordinates of N 10⁰ 04' 55.4", E 118⁰ 50' 56.8". It is bounded on the north by Barangay

Cabayugan and Marufinas, Barangay Maoyon and Buenavista on the south, Barangay San

Rafael on the east and Barangay Buenavista and West Philippine Sea on the west. It is

accessible by land 1.15 hours from the center of Puerto Princesa City and by foot for about

15-minutes trail walk from the cemented road system going to Sitio Sabang (take off point to

PPSRNP). Its straight distance is 400 meters parallel to the road system with second growth

forest over limestone surrounding its periphery. The surrounding land development is

devoted to agriculture such as rice paddies and farm lots. Hundred Caves is within a Karst

landscape extending up to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park (PPSRNP),

a UNESCO world heritage site.

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Figure 4. Location Map of Hundred Caves

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2.2 Biophysical Profile

Hundred caves is a solution-type of cave, the most frequently occurring type of cave in

the Philippines. It is formed by chemical reaction between circulating groundwater and

bedrock composed of limestone or dolomite. Hundred caves is a horizontal cave with an

elevation of 80 meters above sea level.

a. General topography and physiography

Based on the “New Alternative Spatial Strategies for Bgy. Cabayugan Cluster Map”

(Figure 5) of the city government of Puerto Princesa, Barangay Tagabinet (where the

Hundred Caves is located) is included in the Northwestern Cluster which topography is

dominated by hills and mountains. More than three-fourths (76%) of the Cluster’s land

area belongs to slope class above 18%. Less than one-fourth (24%) of the Cluster’s area

has slopes below 18%.

Barangay Tagabinet has a total land area of 3,602.5 hectares (SEPP 2007 of the City of

Puerto Princesa). The barangay serves as a buffer zone of the Puerto Princesa

Subterranean River National Park (PPSRNP). The territory of the park forms part of a

core zone of the Palawan Island Biosphere Reserve, recognized under the

UNESCO MAB Programme in 1990, and a core zone of the Environmentally Critical

Areas Network (ECAN), the central element of the Strategic Environmental Plan for

Palawan Province.

Figure 5. The Hundred Caves including the Agricultural land surrounding it

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Map 1. Barangay Tagabinet as included in the Northwestern Cluster based in Barangay

Cabayugan.

The topography of the barangay Tagabinet ranges from sea level to 1,600 meters above sea level

(masl), mountain range of St. Paul. Land formation varies from flat terrain to rolling hinterlands, from

hills to mountain peaks. The ridges and mountaintops of St. Paul (1,028 masl) are equally pronounced

and the slopes are precipitous rendering them laborious and dangerous to conquer the peak. Slightly

metamorphosed limestone forms the impressive karst landscape around Mt. St. Paul which includes

the area where Hundred caves is located. The cave area is classified as alienable and disposal lands

under the DENR Land Classification System.

i. Accessibility

Hundred caves is accessible by land one hour and fifteen minutes from the center of Puerto

Princesa City and by foot for about 15-minutes trail walk from the cemented road system

going to Sitio Sabang (take off point to PPSRNP). Its straight distance is 400 meters which is

perpendicular to the cemented road system. A second growth forest over limestone

vegetation exists around its periphery. Patches of agricultural development such as rice

paddies and farm lots are prevalent in the area.

Figure 6. New Alternative Spatial Strategies for Bgy. Cabayugan Cluster Map

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ii. Shape and dimensions

This cave system is multi-storied and possesses

a series of continuous narrow “maze-like”

and/or winding interconnecting passages and

vertical pitches which are both challenging and

beautiful. It has three (3) small

cavities/openings in which the farthest serves as

an exit. The cave’s main entrance is located on

a ledge, north - northeast direction, at 75 meters

elevation. It measures 1 meter wide and 0.5

meter high. The main passage is 5 meters wide

and 15 meters long. At the end of the main

passage is a steep drop where the bat chamber

is located. The chamber possesses wide

arching walls and high ceiling reaching 15

meters high. It is sparsely decorated with few

but large speleothems. The steep drop on the

left side of the chamber leads to the 2nd cave opening/cavity below. A total of 42 stations

have been surveyed to complete the mapping of the passages.

Speleothems are well defined and various concretions were present. The passages of the

cave network below contain knee-deep water and some of those dry passages have alluvium

deposits cemented in blocks by chemical/mechanical weathering. Mini-rimstone dams are

abundant as well as columns and draperies. Special feature of speleogen, such as cave

scallops (flute casts) are found on the walls and floors of the main entrance. Rock pendants

also exist in various scales.

Figure 7. One of the Passages inside the Cave

Figure 8. Speleothems found inside the Cave

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Generally, Hundred cave was found to be disturbed but still in its active state. The main

entrance is proliferated by vandals and graffiti’s along the walls and flooring of the cave

system. This is may be attributed to uncontrolled tourism and exploration activities. Another

entrance below the bat chamber also exhibits the same scenario. Uncontrolled edible birds

nest collection is another reason for such. It has a total consolidated surveyed length of 359.7

meters. Cave volume is 6711.7 cubic meters and cave depth is 6.2 meters. Average

inclination is 7.0 degrees and a difficulty of 9.6 (Figures 10, 11 and 12).

Figure 9. Vandals and graffiti along the Cave walls and flooring

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Table 1. Data Summary of Hundred Caves, Tagabinet, Puerto Princesa City

Number of File = 1

Number of Survey = 1

Included Shots = 50

Included Length = 1180.0 Feet 359.7 Meters 0.22 Miles

Total Surveyed = 1180.0 Feet 359.7 Meters 0.22 Miles

Horizontal Length = 1154.6 Feet 351.9 Meters 0.22 Miles

Cave Depth = 20.3 Feet 6.2 Meters

Surface Length = 244.5 Feet 74.5 Meters

Surface Width = 170.2 Feet 51.9 Meters

Surface Area = 41595.2 Ft2

3864.3 M2

Enclosed Volume = 844130.1 Ft3 23903.1 M

3

Cave Volume = 237020.0 Ft3

6711.7 M3

Average Diameter = 14.2 Feet 4.3 Meters

Wall Area = 8722.4 Ft2 6384.5 M

2

Floor Area = 2739.8 Ft2

1183.6 M2

Volume Density = 28.08 %

Average Inclination = 7.0 Deg.

Difficulty = 9.6

Highest Station = ab 9.5 Feet 2.9 Meters

Lowest Station = h -10.8 Feet -3.3 Meters

North Most Station = ac 31.1 Feet 9.5 Meters

South Most Station = e -139.0 Feet -42.4 Meters

East Most Station = 30 0.0 Feet 0.0 Meters

West Most Station = 55 -244.5 Feet -74.5 Meters

Furthest Station = l 458.6 Feet 139.8 Meters 0.09 Miles

Average Shot Length = 23.6 Feet 7.2 Meters

Longest Shot = 93.8 Feet 28.6 Meters

Shortest Shot = 6.0 Feet 1.8 Meters

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Figure 10. Isometric view of Hundred Caves

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Figure 11. Plan view map of Hundred Caves

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Figure 12. Profile view of Hundred Caves

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iii. Hydrology

Tagabinet serves as streaming/flowing area of Babuyan River which is the longest river in

Palawan (54 kilometers) that flows from the highlands behind New Panggangan to

Marufinas, through the Kayasan Certificate of Ancestral Domain Claim (CADC), Barangays

Cabayugan and Tagabinet, to Honda Bay on the East Coast of Palawan.

iv. Climatology

There are two weather conditions prevailing in the area, the wet and the dry season. It is

usually dry from December to May and rainy the rest of the year. Average temperature is 29o

C while the annual average rainfall is 1,148 mm/year. The average annual relative humidity

is high at around 85% (PAGASA, 2001)

Figure 13. Cave mouth /main entrance

(outside view)

Figure 14. Cave Mouth (inside view)

Figure 15. Second cave opening (outside view) Figure 16. Second cave opening (inside view)

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b. Wetland Type/Cave Classification

All identified caves must undergo an assessment process using the Cave Assessment

Form . The cave assessment is a comprehensive data gathering and inventory of cave

resources and shall be accomplished at the site level.

Caves maybe classified as either closed or open to the public. After extensive cave

research, open or closed caves may be subject to reclassification and preparation of

appropriate cave management plan. Caves are classified as follows:

Class I are caves with delicate and fragile geological formations, threatened species,

archeological and paleontological values, and extremely hazardous conditions. Allowable

use may include mapping, photography, educational and scientific purposes;

Class II are caves with 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 shall be opened to experienced cavers or

guided educational tours and visits;

Class III are caves generally safe to inexperienced visitor with no known threatened

species, archeological, geological, natural history, cultural and historical values. These

caves may also be utilized for economic purposes such as guano extraction and edible

birds nest collection.

After the cave assessment, the composite assessment team reviewed the accomplished

cave assessment form and the factors to be considered in cave classification/re-

classification outlined in item IV of Manual on Cave Classification and make

recommendation as to whether to open or close a cave. Based on the characteristics of the

cave, it is classified as Class III, limited to low impact ecotourism activity.

c. Flora and Fauna

Fauna outside of cave

There were 47 species of birds recorded within the vicinity of the cave system. Three (3)

of which are vulnerable and four (4) were near-threatened (IUCN Conservation Status).

A total of 14 species of mammal were recorded in the area. Six (6) of these species were

observed outside the cave and eight (8) are cave (bats) residents. Table 2 and 3 list the

avian and mammals found outside the cave.

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Table 2. List of Avian Species outside the Cave

Family Common Name Scientific Name IUCN Status Endemicity

Columbidae Emerald Dove Chalcophaps indica Least Concern Resident

Columbidae Zebra Dove Geopelia striata Least Concern Introduced

species

Columbidae Green Imperial Pigeon Ducula aenea Least Concern Resident

Psittacidae Blue-headed Racquet-

tail

Prioniturus platenae Vulnerable Endemic

Psittacidae Blue-naped Parrot Tanygnathus

lucionensis

Near-threatened Endemic*

Cuculidae Plaintive Cuckoo Cacomantis merulinus Least Concern Resident

Cuculidae Asian Drongo-Cuckoo Surniculus lugubris Least Concern Resident

Cuculidae Common Koel Eudynamys

scolopaceus

Least Concern Resident

Cuculidae Greater Coucal Centropus sinensis Least Concern Resident

Strigidae Palawan Scops Owl Otus fuliginosus Near-threatened Endemic

Strigidae Spotted Wood Owl Strix seloputo Least Concern Resident

Podargidae Large-tailed Nightjar Caprimulgus macrurus Least Concern Resident

Apodidae Pygmy Swiftlet Collocalia troglodytes Least Concern Endemic*

Apodidae Glossy Swiftlet Collocalia esculenta Least Concern Resident

Apodidae Uniform Swiftlet Aerodramus

vanikorensis


Apodidae Edible-nest Swiftlet Aerodramus fuciphagus Least Concern Resident

Alcedinidae Collared Kingfisher Todiramphu schloris Least Concern Resident

Bucerotidae Palawan Hornbill Anthracoceros marchei Vulnerable Endemic

Dicruridae Hair-crested Drongo Dicrurus hottentottus Least Concern Resident

Monarchidae Black-naped Monarch Hypothymis azurea Least Concern Resident

Monarchidae Blue Paradise-

flycatcher

Terpsiphone

cyanescens

Near-threatened Endemic

Corvidae Slender-billed Crow Corvus enca Least Concern Resident

Paridae Palawan Tit Parus amabilis Near-threatened Endemic

IncertaeSedis Rufous-tailed

Tailorbird

Orthotomus sericeus Least Concern Resident

Pycnonotidae Black-headed Bulbul Pycnonotus atriceps Least Concern Resident

Pycnonotidae Olive-winged Bulbul Pycnonotus plumosus Least Concern Resident

Pycnonotidae Grey-cheeked Bulbul Criniger bres Least Concern Resident

Pycnonotidae Sulphur-bellied

Bulbul

Iole palawanensis Least Concern Endemic

Timaliidae Ashy-headed Babbler Malacocincla

cinereiceps

Least Concern Endemic

Timaliidae Falcated Wren-

Babbler

Ptilocichla falcata Vulnerable Endemic

Timaliidae Striped Tit-Babbler Macronous gularis Least Concern Resident

Irenidae Asian Fairy-bluebird Irena puella Least Concern Resident

Sturnidae Asian Glossy Starling Aplonis panayensis Least Concern Resident

Turdidae White-vented Shama Copsychus niger Least Concern Endemic

Chloropseidae Yellow-throated

Leafbird

Chloropsis

palawanensis

Least Concern Endemic

Dicaeidae Palawan Flowerpecker Prionochilus plateni Least Concern Endemic

Dicaeidae Pygmy Flowerpecker Dicaeum pygmaeum Least Concern Endemic*

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Family Common Name Scientific Name IUCN Status Endemicity

Nectariniidae Brown-throated

Sunbird

Anthreptes malacensis Least Concern Resident

Nectariniidae Purple-throated

Sunbird

Leptocoma sperata Least Concern Resident

Nectariniidae Olive-backed Sunbird Cinnyris jugularis Least Concern Resident

Nectariniidae Lovely Sunbird Aethopyga shelleyi Least Concern Endemic*

Nectariniidae Little Spiderhunter Arachnothera

longirostra


Passeridae Eurasian Tree

Sparrow

Passer montanus Least Concern Resident

Estrildidae White-bellied Munia Lonchura leucogastra Least Concern Resident

Estrildidae Black-headed Munia Lonchura malacca Least Concern Resident

Motacillidae Yellow Wagtail Motacilla flava Least Concern Resident

Pittidae Hooded Pitta Pitta sordida Least Concern Resident

Table 3. List of Mammals outside the Cave

Family Common/Local Name Scientific Name IUCN Status

Tupaiidae Palawan Tree Shrew Tupaia palawanensis Least Concern ver 3.1

Sciuridae Northern Palawan Tree

Squirrel

Sundasciurus juvencus Least Concern ver 3.1

Cercopithecidae Long-tailed Macaque Macaca fascicularis Least Concern ver 3.1

Pteropodidae Lesser Dog-faced Fruit

Bat

Cynopterus brachyotis Least Concern ver 3.1

Pteropodidae Geoffrey's Rousette Rousettus amplexicaudatus Least Concern ver 3.1

Pteropodidae Dagger-toothed Long-

nosed Fruit Bat

Macroglossus minimus Least Concern ver 3.1

Fauna found inside the cave

Among the recorded species, four (4) were observed nested inside the cave. Collocalia

esculenta and C.troglodytes were nested near the cave opening, while Aerodramus

vanikorensis and A. fuciphagus were residing in the inner cave recesses. A. fuciphagus was

more secretive in terms of nest location (attached on the wall) compared to A. vanikorensis

wherein nests are more visible and found sitting on cave structures.

Figure 17. Other lesser known fauna found outside the cave

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Most bat species observed inside the cave are insectivorous. A total of eight (8) bat species

are recorded inside the cave (see Table 4) and these belong to three families (Rhinolopidae,

Hipposiderodae and Vespertelionidae). Hipposideros diadema were observed most and was

found to be adaptive to presence of cave intruder, while Rhinolophidae bats flew as

observer’s presence was felt in the area. Vespertenionidae are observed mostly in the cave

bell-holes and less tolerant to observer’s presence.

Table 4. List of Mammals inside the Cave

Family Common/Local Name Scientific Name IUCN Status

Rhinolophidae Creagh's Horseshoe Bat Rhinolophus creaghi Least Concern ver 3.1

Rhinolophidae Yellow-faced Horseshoe

Bat

Rhinolophus virgo Least Concern ver 3.1

Rhinolophidae Arcuate Horseshoe Bat Rhinolophus arcuatus Least Concern ver 3.1

Hipposiderodae Diadem Leaf-nosed Bat Hipposideros diadema Least Concern ver 3.1

Vesperteliniodae Schreiber's Bent-winged

Bat

Miniopterus schreibersii Near Threatened ver

3.1

Vesperteliniodae Great Long-fingered Bat Miniopterus tristis Least Concern ver 3.1

Vesperteliniodae Little Long-fingered Bat Miniopterus australis Least Concern ver 3.1

Vesperteliniodae Pallid Large-footed

Myotis

Myotis macrotarsus Near Threatened ver

3.1

Figure 18. Nests found inside the cave

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Bat Species Inside Hundred Caves

Figure 23. Cynopterus brachyotis (Short-nosed fruit bat), Family Pteropodidae

Figure 22. Eonycteris spelaea

Family Pteropodidae

Figure 21. Macroglossus minimus

Dagger-toothed Bat

Family Pteropodidae

Figure 19. Miniopterus australis

False Vampire Bat

Family Megadermatidae

Figure 20. Megaderma spasma

Little Bent-winged Bat

Family Vespertilionidae

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Flora species outside the cave

Hundred Caves is surrounded by diverse flora and fauna. Mix forest flora that grow over the

limestone/karst substrate. Because of limited time and knowledge of the flora species, only

40 flora species which were observed common in the area are identified (see Table 5). Most

dominant tree species was Amugis and Malugay. Moraceae family were observed have the

highest number of species which has nine (9) identified species followed by Anacardiacea

family with six (6) identified species.

Table 5. List of Flora Species outside Cave

Family Species Common/

Local Name IUCN Status

Anacardiaceae Koordersiodendron pinnatum Amugis NA

Anacardiaceae Buchanania arborescens Balinghasai NA

Anacardiaceae Anacardium occidentale Kasoy NA

Anacardiaceae Buchanania nitida Balintantan NA

Anacardiaceae Mangifera monandra Malapaho EN

Anacardiaceae Mangifera altissima Pahutan VU

Apocynaceae Alstonia scholaris Dita LC

Figure 25. Miniopteris australis

Little bent wing bat

Family: Vespertilionidae

Figure 24. Rhinolopus virgo

Yellow-faced Horseshoe Bat

Family Rhinolophidae

Figure 26. Rhinolophus creaghi

Family Rhinolophidae

Near Threatened (IUCN)

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Family Species Common/

Local Name IUCN Status

Apocynaceae Alstonia macrophylla Batino LC

Apocynaceae Tabernaemontana pandacaqui Pandakaking-gubat NA

Aspleniaceae Asplenium nidus Pakpak-lauin

Dipterocarpaceae Dipterocarpus sp. Apitong

Dryopteridaceae Diospyros philippinesis Kamagong EN

Ebenaceae Diospyros pyrrhocarpa Anang LC

Ebenaceae Diospyros pilosanthera Bolongeta NA

Euphorbiaceae Bananato

Euphorbiaceae Macaranga grandifolia Takipasin VU

Gnelaceae Gnetum gnemon Bago/Lamparan/Alalod LC

Lauraceae Dehaasia incrassata Basa/Kayaban NA

Leguminosae Intsia bijuga Ipil VU

Moraceae Ficus nota Tibig NA

Moraceae Artocarpus odoratissimus Marang NA

Moraceae Artocarpus heterophyllus Nangka NA

Moraceae Ficu sulmifolia Is-is VU

Moraceae Ficus balete Balite NA

Moraceae Artocarpus blancoi Antipolo VU

Moraceae Ficus latsoni Tangisang-layugan NA

Moraceae Ficus variegata Tangisang-bayawak NA

Moraceae Ficus septica Hauili NA

Myrtaceae Syzygium xanthophyllum Malatampoi NA

Rubiaceae Mussaenda sp. Kahoy-dalaga NA

Rubiaceae Nauclea orientalis Bangkal NA

Rubiaceae Neonauclea formicaria Hambabalud NA

Sapindaceae Pometia pinnata Malugai-liitan NA

Sapotaceae Palaquium luzoniense Red nato VU

Malvaceae Pterocymbium tinctorium Taluto NA

Sterculiaceae Pterospermum diversifolium Bayog NA

Poaceae Schizostachyum diffusum Balikaw NA

Fabaceae Parkia timoriana Kupang NA

Cannabaceae Trema orientalis Anabiong NA

d. Geology

Palawan is subdivided into two tectonic terrains, namely the North Palawan Continental

terrain and the Southern Palawan Continental terrain, which are separated by the Sabang

thrust. The region north of Mt. St. Paul is dominated by metamorphic rocks of the

basement complex with volcanic rocks around Cleopatra’s needle, and sedimentary

Bangley formation to the west. Slightly metamorphosed limestone forms the impressive

karst landscape around Mt. St. Paul.

Barangay Tagabinet is underlain by rock formations that consist of recent alluvium,

sandstone and shale. The recent alluvium is made up of transported clay, silt, sand and

pebbles. Soils vary from clay, sand, and loam. (Biodiversity in and around Protected

Areas, SAGUDA Palawan Inc., February 2002.)

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e. Vulnerability Studies

There are identified flood-prone areas such as those in Buenavista Centro and in the

Puroks of Masagana and Maligaya in Barangay Tagabinet. Moreover, portions of

Tagabinet are vulnerable to landslides while all coastal areas of the Cluster are potentially

at risk to storm surge and sea level rise.

2.3 Socio-cultural Profile

a. Anthropological/paleontological/archeological data

When the different cave mouths were inspected for archaeology, the survey did not yield

any traces of prehistoric human activity thus Hundred caves is negative for

archaeological significance as of the moment. However, an extensive archaeological

works should be conducted on the whole area to verify the study. Barangay Tagabinet is

still part of a massive limestone formation inundated by a number of caves and rock

shelters. The prospect of the area for ancient human occupation is high. During the

fieldwork, the local farmers have already reported and identified several other caves that

might be archaeologically significant.

b. IKSP with emphasis on resource management

Palawan is known to be a home of several indigenous groups. In Tagabinet there is an

identified indigenous community however they are residing far from the cave and their

Indigenous Knowledge System and Practices (IKSP) have not yet been documented. Due

to the time constraint during the conduct of the assessment, IKSP was not been part of the

study.

c. Historical

The history of Barangay Tagabenit started when Sebastian Lumibao, Ramon

Lumibao and Patente Basaya, all members of theTagbanua Tribe arrived in the area.

According to them the area is abundant with wildlife, wild fruits and root crops and

marine life. The area serves as a hiding place of the Tagbanuas during the 18th

century

Muslim-Tagbanua War. The place was formerly called Tagumbenit which are two

tagbanua words which mean “tagum” – hiding place and “benit” – just

beside/nearby/alongside. The first “Masicampo”, Tribal Chieftain during the Muslim-

Tagbanua War was Masicampo Sebastian Lumibao who leads his people to hide in

Tagumbenit until later on after the war the village was just simply called Tagabenit.

In 1956-58, nine (9) lowlander families from Cuyo, Palawan (Lauro Ponce de

Leon) and Provinces of Romblon (Teodolo Mingua), Aklan (Felomino Bendolo,

Francisco Mameng, Rufino Cajilig Sr., Alberto Bendolo, and Vicente Mameng) and

Antique (Jose Orcajada and Fortunato Orcajada thru the leadership of Mr. Teodulo

Mingua arrived in the lowland areas of Tagabinet and decided to settle in the area.

Marine and forest life are still abundant, however, these families started to clear the area

and started to introduce Kaingin farming and planted upland rice, root crops and

P a g e | 29


vegetables. The succeeding years from 1959-1970’s, kaingin farming became more

widen and more or less 20% of the forest land of the barangay was cleared, population

increases, permanent crops like coconut , mango, jackfruits and other fruit trees were also

introduced and rain-fed lowland rice was also established.

Tagabinet is the mother barangay of Cabayugan and other sitios existing within the

PPUR area.

d. Demography

Total Population and Households

Based on the 2009 CBMS Survey, Barangay Tagabinet has a total population of 1,239

individuals and 251 households which are distributed in seven puroks. Table 6 list the

number of households found in each purok, with Nasuduan as the highest populace and

Liyang as the lowest. It has an average household size of five.

Table 6. Number of Households in Tagabinet, 2009

Population Distribution by Sex

Table 7 shows that majority of the population in Tagabinet is male (54%) and only 46%

comprised the female population.

Table 7. Population Distribution by Sex, Barangay Tagabinet, City of Puerto Princesa, 2009

Purok/Sitio Total

Households

Total

Persons

Male Female

Nasuduan 48 249 130 119

Maligaya 45 206 107 99

Makirawa 42 221 126 95

Bayatao 39 181 91 90

Pagkakaisa 31 158 87 71

Kayasan 30 144 80 64

Liyang 16 80 43 37

T o t a l 251 1,239 664 575

Purok/Sitio No. of Households

Nasuduan 48

Maligaya 45

Makirawa 42

Bayatao 39

Pagkakaisa 31

Kayasan 30

Liyang 16

Total 251

P a g e | 30


Population Distribution by Age

46.7% of the residents of Barangay Tagabinet are 0 to 16 years old and the rest is from 17

and above.

Table 8. Population by Age, by Gender Disaggregation 2009

Age Male Female Total Percentage

0 to 5 years old 112 104 216 17.40%

6 to 12 years old 127 114 241 19.50%

13 to 16 years old 61 61 122 9.8

17 and above 364 296 660 53.30%

Total 664 575 1,239 100%

Population Density

Barangay Tagabinet is sparsely populated with a population density of .34 people per

hectare. This happened because the area is classified as a buffer zone of the Puerto Princesa

City Subterranean River National Park, thus entry of people and activities in the area are

regulated.

Religion

Religious groups that can be found in the barangay includes the following: 1) Roman

Catholic, 2) Seventh Day Adventist, 3) Jehovah’s Witness, 4) Pentecostal Church of God,

and 5). Life Church. However, no data are available as to the number of membership of the

above listed religious groups.

Ethnic Group

Majority of the ethnic group that resides in the barangay are Tagbanua, Aklanon,

Rombloanon, Antiqueños, and Cuyunon, however there is no available data as for their

number.

Tagabinet Neighborhood Tourism Association (TNTA)

The Tagabinet Neighborhood Tourism Association is a group of individuals that join together

in the intention to manage the Hundred Caves and serve as their source of alternative

livelihood. Members of the association are the owners of the land surrounding the cave

ecosystem. Members of the TNTA are formerly known as ACTS multi-purpose cooperative.

It is composed of 76 members generally households with low income generating capacity.

The association is a Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) registered entity.

Determined to protect, conserve and manage the karst ecosystem where Hundred Caves is

located, the lot owners formed a group which is now the TNTA. The association will

undertake the caves conservation program through low impact ecotourism activity within

P a g e | 31


specified areas of the cave identified by the PCSD. Under the Community-Based Sustainable

Tourism (CBST) Program of the City of Puerto Princesa, the group is praying and applying

for the management of hundred caves ecotourism activity of Hundred caves.

The officials of the TNTA are the following:

President - Mr. Ardes Cayaon

Vice President - Mrs. Susan Orcajada

BOD Chairman - Mr. Arturo Hermoso

BOD Member - Mr. Gonzalo Coching

BOD Member - Mr. Mario Juderial

BOD Member - Mr. Jose Arnulfo Flores

BOD Member - Mr. Charlie Flores

BOD Member - Mrs. Deorita Cardejon

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2.4 Economic Profile

a. Land Use

Existing land use pattern in areas adjacent to cave are settlements and agriculture.

Agricultural crops such as coconuts and bananas are planted alongside few fruit trees of

papaya and mango. Open areas are dominated by rice paddies. The concentrations of

local population are located in Purok Nasuduan (48 Households); Maligaya (45

Households); Makirawa (42 Households); and Bayatao (39 Households). Cultivated rice

lands are very much limited and the remaining forests areas especially in Bayatao and

Kayasan are utilized by both IPs and non-IPs in the gathering of non-timber forest

products. The concentrations of centuries-old almaciga trees are located in the higher

slopes of forest areas.

b. Resource use

The proximity of the area to a UNESCO World Heritage Site regulates extractive

resource utilization. Thus, only almaciga and rattan gathering are the major sources of

livelihood among the local inhabitants aside from fishing and limited farming. Soft

impact ecotourism activities also occur in the area such as the bird watching and caving

in Ugong Rock.

Tourism/Recreational

Hundred caves exploration/visitation started late in year 2005. Through word of

mouth, the beautiful cave formations of the Hundred caves, which is just adjacent to

the Ugong Rock, spreads to other people and resulted to a number of visits.

Educational

During the conduct of the assessment, no data were gathered pertaining to Hundred

caves as venue for educational purposes.

Agriculture

The surrounding area of Hundred caves was presently utilized as rice paddies and

farm lots for staple crops and fruits. Most of the beach forests in the barangay have been

converted to coconut plantations and residential areas.

Remaining Forest

The barangay has still remaining old growth forest. Species of Amugis, Ipil, Apitong,

Rumarao, Lagara, Pupuan, Nato and Baan trees are still, common and relatively

dense compared to other species like Kamagong and Narra. The utilization of these

resources varies according to demands and uses. Among the species that are rarely

utilized are Apitong, Rumarao, Lagara and Antipolo. Apitong was the tree species

that was heavily logged in the 1973-1976 by New Pagdanan Timber Company

(NPTC) logging company.

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Resource extraction

Hundred caves is identified to be a source of edible birds’ nests (EBN), thus

collection of nests is seasonally done by gatherers.

Other forest resources like rattan, pandan, balitbit, buho, bamboo, nito, orchids,

anibong and pulot (honey) are among the non-timber forest products that are still

common and regularly extracted or utilized by the locals as sources of livelihood.

c. Economic Activities/livelihood/enterprises

Farming, fishing and forestry are the main sources of income and employment of the

residents. Some are also involved in tourism-related income generating

industries/activities. Undetermined number of residents has dual or more source of

income.

2.5 Political Profile

a. Political set up

Barangay Tagabinet is under the jurisdiction of the City of Puerto Princesa and

technically considered as buffer zone of the PPRSNP area. It is governed by a

Barangay Chairman, along with its 10 board members or Sangguniang barangay

officials.

b. Jurisdictional arrangements

In the Province of Palawan, the lead government agency tasked to implement the Caves

Act (RA 9072) is the Palawan Council for Sustainable Development, pursuant to

Republic Act No. 7611 or the Strategic Environmental Plan for Palawan Act (SEP Law)2.

RA 7611 provides a comprehensive policy on the protection, development, and

conservation of Palawan’s natural resources through the pursuit of sustainable

development3, which is the general philosophy of an environment and natural resource

management framework called the SEP.

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

2 Section 4, RA 9072.

3 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 an institutional machinery including among

others, fiscal and financial programs to ensure the effective and efficient implementation of environmental

plans, programs and projects.

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.

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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.

Section 10 of PCSD A.O. No. 03-08 states that the PCSD may enter into agreements

pertaining to the management, protection and conservation of caves within the province

of Palawan. Under such scheme, people and community empowerment will be socially

addressed as well as gender sensitivity issues and IEC pertaining to conservation of caves

and cave resources, including the karst environment mainstreamed into grassroots level.

Local Government Code of the Philippines or RA 7160 states that caves are owned by the

government. If a cave is found inside a titled land, the owner of the land may enter into

an agreement with the government for the protection, conservation and management of

the cave. In case of the Hundred Caves, the barangay local government of Tagabinet has

the jurisdiction over the area where Hundred caves is located. In order to protect and

conserve the karst system, the Barangay council issued a resolution to the Tagabinet

Neighborhood Tourism Association (TNTA) giving them the temporary rights to manage

the Hundred caves.

c. Institutional systems

Section 4 of RA 9072 or the National Caves and Caves Resources Management and

Protection Act states that “The DENR shall be the lead agency tasked to implement the

provisions of this Act in coordination with the Department of Tourism (DOT), the

National Museum, the Natural Historical Institute and concerned local government units

(LGUs) for specific caves, except that in the Province of Palawan, the Palawan Council

for Sustainable Development shall be the lead implementing agency pursuant to Republic

Act 7611 or the Strategic Environmental Plan for Palawan Act.

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

P a g e | 35


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.

(5) Research and Development - development and implementation of

research/studies to support cave management and policy formulation.

The PCSD/S is empowered to enter into a Memorandum of Agreement with any Local

Government Unit for the preservation, protection, development, and management of cave

and cave resources located in the territorial jurisdiction of such LGU under Section 5.2 of

R.A. 9072;

The PCSD/S may also enter into a tripartite agreement with the LGU and the

Landowner/s for the conservation, management and protection of caves and cave

resources accessible through the Landowner's property.

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CHAPTER 3: LEGAL STATUS AND REGULATIONS/FRAMEWORK

a. Existing laws and regulations

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”4.

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”5. 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 components6.

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.

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 city. They can be applied as well to ecosystems and smaller management units

like forests, reefs, protected areas, and caves.

4 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

November 2013] 5 Citation for Palawan.

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

P a g e | 37


Wise Use of Cave

Another broad management principle that is applicable to the caves of Puerto Princesa 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"7.Although not all the caves of Puerto Princesa City

are not wetlands, their locations and their proximity to internationally important wetlands

make the concept applicable to these caves.

The Ramsar wise use concept may in fact be applied to all wetlands and water resources8 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.

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 Puerto Princesa City are already established and adopted by the city.

Hundred Caves is zoned as Multiple Use Zone of the ECAN (Figure 27).

7 Ramsar Convention [website]. What is the "wise use" of wetlands? Available online:

http://www.ramsar.org/cda/en/ramsar-about-faqs-what-is-wise-use/main/ramsar/1-36-37%5E7724_4000_0__ [Accessed April 2013]. 8 For a broad definition of ”wetlands” under the Ramsar Conventions, see:

http://www.ramsar.org/cda/en/ramsar-about-faqs-what-are-wetlands/main/ramsar/1-36- 37%5E7713_4000_0__

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Figure 27. ECAN Map of the Hundred Caves

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b. Administrative and executive issuances

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 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 Annex B and C.

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

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

P a g e | 40


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. Researches 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

P a g e | 41


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, 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

Reservation is an important archaeological site and is being managed by the

National Museum. A cave in El Nido is also a recent archaeological site.

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

like the National Tourism Development Plan 2011-20169. 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

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

P a g e | 42


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.”10

Executive Order No. 111 (Establishing the Guidelines for Ecotourism

Development in the Philippines)11

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.

c. Land tenure

Lot owners surrounding the karst/cave system possess existing tax declarations

certified by the City Assessors’ Office (CAO) of Puerto Princesa. These persons

together with other households of the barangay organized a group/association which

aims to protect and manage the cave and surrounding environment. They called

themselves Tagabinet Neighborhood Tourism Association (TNTA).

d. Local ordinances and other issuances

Table 9 lists the local ordinances, resolutions and other issuances pertaining to the

Hundred Caves which shall be considered and serve as additional guide in the

conservation and management of the Hundred Caves.

10

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 11

http://www.gov.ph/1999/06/17/executive-order-no-111-s-1999/

P a g e | 43


Table 9. List of local ordinances and other issuances

Ordinance/

Resolution No.

Title Date of Issuance

Kapasyahan Bilang

04 Serye 2013

Kapasyahan na nag-iindorso sa Acts

Marketing Cooperative na mangasiwa

ng isang proyektong Pangturismo, ang

Hundred Caves ng Barangay

Tagabinet, Lungsod ng Puerto

Princesa

February 1, 2013

Kapasyahan Bilang 8

series of 2014

Kapasyahan na nagpapawalang-bisa

sa Kapasyahan bilang 04 serye 2013

na nag-iindorso sa Acts Marketing

Cooperative na mangasiwa ng isang

proyekong pangtorismo, ang Hundred

Caves ng Barangay Tagabinet,

Lungsod ng Puerto Princesa

February 10, 2014

Kapasyahan Bilang 9

Series of 2014

Kapasyahan na nag-iindorso sa

Tagabinet Neighborhood Tourism

Association na magasiwa sa

proyektong pang torismo ang One

Hundred Cave bilang kapalit ng Acts

marketing Cooperative na pinawalang

bias ng kapasyahan bilang 08 serye

2014

February 10, 2014

P a g e | 44


CHAPTER 4: PAST AND CURRENT INITIATIVES

a. Past and on-going activities

The barangay council passed a resolution permitting the Tagabinet Neighborhood

Tourism Association (TNTA) to manage the Hundred Caves. The TNTA through its

board of directors requested PCSD Staff to conduct a cave assessment. An application to

open the area as an ecotourism site is also submitted to the City government of Puerto

Princesa.

In response, series of trainings and workshops were conducted by the City Tourism

Office (CTO). These activities aim to educate, train and capacitate members of the TNTA

in relation to Cave Guiding, safety and basic caving; tour guiding and visitor handling,

marketing and business product development and tourism in general. The PCSD Staff

also conducted planning workshop for the development of the management plan for the

Hundred Caves. During the activity, both the barangay council and members of the

TNTA showed their interests, through active participation and enthusiasm

b. Researches/Scientific Studies

The cave serves as a study site for several researches and scientific studies such as the

following:

i. A workshop was conducted on August 23-27, 2014 by the Research Institute on

Tropical Medicine (RITM) in cooperation with the UPLB Field Museum entitled

“Training on Cave Bats Survey: Identification, Biology, Population census and

Cave survey and mapping”. It was participated by PPUR staff, PCSD staff and

local stakeholders. As part of the practicum, participants did explore the cave and

did markings inside the cave.

ii. Cave Assessment, Mapping and Classification conducted by PCSDS Cave

Assessment Team on September 24-28, 2014.

c. Implementing institutions, agencies or persons

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, as

summarized in Annex D.

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

Committee (PCMPCC) and, concurrently, as Palawan Wildlife Management Committee.

The function of the PCMPCC is to assist the PCSD in the implementation of RA 9072. In

12

PCSD Resolution No. 13-484.

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addition to the existing members of ENR Committee, representatives of the following

agencies are included as committee members of the PCMPCC.

i. National Museum

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

Historical Institute]

iii. Department of Tourism

iv. Local Government Units through the League of Mayors

City Cave Committee13

At the city level, a Puerto Princesa Cave Committee (PPCC) 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 PPCC is to ensure the implementation of city program on cave

management, protection, and conservation.

City ECAN Board

In the absence of a constituted PPCC, the City 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 PPCC. The ECAN Board is a multi-sectoral, 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 city 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.

As with the composition of the PCMPCC the membership of the City ECAN Board can

be expanded to include concerned agencies and entities like National Museum, National

Historical Commission of the Philippines, and Department of Tourism.

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/ CITYITIES 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

P a g e | 46


CHAPTER 5: SITUATIONAL ANALYSIS

a. Threats to Cave Ecosystem

There are many identified threats to the Hundred Caves especially on its biophysical

aspect. Among the threats are the presence of cave hazards, destruction of rock

formations, loss of wildlife species, decline in edible bird’s nest production and the

unregulated and massive number of visitors that enter the cave. There are also reports that

the lack of governance and enforcement implementation as well as lack of human

resource poses threat to the cave and cave ecosystem.

If these threats will not be addressed, this might lead to the disruption of normal

processes that occur during cave evolution. Moreover, there is a tendency for cave

visitors to explore and unconsciously destroy cave speleothems and speleogen. Entrance

in the cave has to be regulated to cushion the impact of “mass tourism”. Delineating a

buffer zone around the Hundred Caves as well as development of other activities outside

the cave can minimize the existing and potential adverse effects of economic activities.

b. Cave Uses and Opportunities

Hundred Caves has good potential for tourism. The cave can carry soft impact

ecotourism activities such as cave tour, cave photography, birdwatching, guided

educational tours and visits, and scientific studies. It can be opened to

experienced or inexperienced cavers but the visit must be regulated.

Hundred Caves is primarily classified as Class II cave. This means that the cave

may have areas or sections that have hazardous conditions and contain sensitive

geological, biological, archaeological, cultural, historical, and biological values

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

seasonally or permanently.

c. Situational Analysis

Need to Capacitate the Stakeholders for Strong Local Involvement in Cave

Protection, Conservation, and Management

A major consideration to the success of management interventions in Hundred

Caves is resolving any conflict in the area, particularly among the members of

the TNTA. During the planning workshop, stakeholders identified that there is

lack of educational information among members of the community and issues

on values and practices. To address these, the community recognizes the need

for the conduct of trainings and seminars, team building activities and spiritual

counseling. Although the owners of the land surrounding the cave have already

agreed to allow the association to use their land, there is still a need to come up

with a written document to prevent conflict in the future.

As to the management of the cave, a tri-partite Memorandum of Agreement

(MoA) between the PCSD, local government and the TNTA can be undertaken

since the TNTA is willing to be the local cave management body.

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Responsibilities and accountabilities of each agency must be clearly identified;

management infrastructure must also be set. Members of the management body

should be literate about the management plan and they must be able to adopt

their own policies for sound cave management. They should be empowered to

provide organizational arrangements to involve all stakeholders in cave

management. As such, they need 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.

Need for a Strict Implementation and Monitoring of Cave and other

related Laws, Rules and Regulation

There are several existing cave and cave-related laws, rules and regulations.

One of the gaps identified based from several studies within the Philippine

setting is poor implementation of the management plan and absence of

monitoring on the ground. In effect, cave and cave resources are among those

assets which are damaged or destroyed prior to studies and documentation.

Some of the rock formations inside the Hundred Caves are already damaged

and there are areas proliferated by vandals and graffiti’s such as in the main

entrance, along the walls and flooring of the cave system and at the entrance

below the bat chamber. This has been attributed to uncontrolled tourism,

exploration activities and uncontrolled edible birds nest collection.

Need for a “Green Tourism” Program for the Cave

The proximity of the Hundred Caves to the famous Puerto Princesa

Subterranean River National Park (locally known as the Puerto Princesa

Underground River (PPUR)) can be considered as an advantage. At present, the

city offers a limited tourist destination for its guests: city tour, PPUR and

Honda Bay tour. In most cases, Puerto Princesa only serves as a jump-off point

going to El Nido and San Vicente. In effect, revenue from tourism industry does

not radiate to the large portion of Puerto Princesa. In cases wherein guests

intend to visit PPUR during bad weather condition, the PPUR management

office is oblige to cancel the tour and the only alternative is the Ugong Rock

experience which only takes about an hour. Other than this, no other attraction

can be offered in the site, thus resulting to low satisfaction among visitors.

But if the Hundred Caves will start its operation, the city can offer additional

tourist destination for its guests. With its characteristics, guests will be able to

have a different experience other that the PPUR tour. Some of the possible

activities that the Hundred Caves can offer are caving, rock climbing, bird

watching and nature trekking.

A viable livelihood option in the islands 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.

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

services and to put up hard infrastructures. 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 communities15

.

Barangay Tagabinet hosts various caves thus a green tourism program for the

barangay 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, among others.

15

Libosada 2006, p. 37.

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CHAPTER 6: THE MANAGEMENT PLAN

This management plan envisions to develop an ecotourism program for Hundred Caves to

ensure ecological integrity of the cave and its ecosystem through sustainable management of

an empowered local community group thereby providing alternative source of livelihood.

6.1 Mission Statement

It is the aim of this plan to preserve the ecosystem of Hundred Caves and to develop the area

as ecotourism site to serve as source of alternative livelihood for the local stakeholders.

Specifically, the plan’s immediate objectives are:

a. To delineate and mark boundaries of the cave system on the ground as an effective

on-site aid to the overall management

b. To establish soft-impact safety measures inside and at the surrounding cave

ecosystem

c. To rehabilitate and restore degraded areas

d. To capacitate the Tagabinet Neighborhood Tourism Association in the management

of the cave based on guidelines of the Community-based Sustainable Tourism

(CBST) Program of the Puerto Princesa City

e. To secure the necessary permit from the city government to start the operation of the

cave as an ecotourism site

f. To secure funds for the construction of infrastructures for the visitors

g. To promote responsible ecotourism through promotional activities and materials

h. To be included in the tourism loop of the Puerto Princesa City

6.2 Outcome

This plan has three interlinked outcomes as follows:

4. to protect and manage the cave in an integrated and adaptive manner,

5. to efficiently use the cave and the resources therein, and

6. to safeguard the cave ecosystem’s resilience and stability and enhance its

productivity.

The mission, 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.

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Figure 28. Objectives of the Management Plan

6.3 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 10. 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 (potential

problem)

Agriculture development

Cave Protection and

Management

Waste Management

Established "Green Tourism" program for

cave

Strengthened cave governance,

stewardship and advocacy

Reduced cave threats and enhanced cave ecosystem security

Ecological Integrity and stakeholders’ empowermen

t

Conservation and

protection off cave

and cave support

systems

Cave policy

development, IEC, tri-

partite agreement

Community capacity

development,

implementation of

HCMP

P a g e | 51


Major problem, issue, need, or

priority to be addressed

Plan

component

Uncontrolled recreation/tourism

Treasure hunting (potential

problem)

Human settlement 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

6.3 Management Strategies and Intervention

The management strategies of this plan are based on the community planning workshop

conducted. Through the workshop it was identified that the TNTA has initiatives to secure

permit for the operation of the Hundred Caves as an ecotourism destination. The barangay

council through Barangay Chairman Arnold Cayaon and its Barangay Councilors confirmed

that a resolution has been issued to TNTA allowing them to manage and protect the Hundred

Caves and conduct ecotourism activities. Hence, the plan is centered about the establishment

of an ecotourism program as an alternative livelihood. As such this management plan

designates many of the management tasks to the designated community management body,

the Tagabinet Neighborhood Tourism Association. Many of the tasks are also lead or shared

by other supporting organizations or groups such as PCSD, City Government of Puerto

Princesa, the academe and the barangay council. Hundred Caves Management Action Plan is

presented in Table 11 below.

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Table 11. Hundred Caves Management Action Plan

OUTCOMES COMPONENT OBJECTIVES TARGETS ACTION OUTPUT / INDICATORS RESPONSIBILITY

1. To establish and

strengthen cave

governance, promote

stewardship, and

implement advocacy

actions

A. Policy Reform

and Development

A1. To implement

Hundred Caves

Management Plan

(HCMP)

1) HCMP presented and

approved by community,

LGU, and PCSD

1) Presentation of the HCMP before

the community, barangay LGU, DOT,

PCSD, and other stakeholders

- Presentations and

consultations held

LGU, PCSDS, DOT,

TNTA, PPUR-PMO

Other Stakeholders

2) HCMP adopted by

barangay and city LGU

1) Adoption of the HCMP by the

LGU

- Barangay and SP

resolutions

LGU

2) Integration of HCMP to the city

CLUP

- HCMP integrated with

CLUP

LGU, PCSDS

3) Implementation of the actions

prescribed in the HCMP

- Actions implemented as

per work plan

LGU, PPCC/ECAN

Board/Cave Mgt.

Body

3) Community aware of the

HCMP

1) Information, Education,

Communication (IEC) on the HCMP

- IEC activities conducted LGU, PCSDS, TNTA

- No. of individuals covered

by IEC activities

LGU

A2. To form a Puerto

Princesa Cave

Committee who will

administer the

implementation of the

HCMP ***

1) PPCC formed and

organized

1) Study the feasibility of organizing

an PPCC from the existing City

ECAN Board (studies to include

composition, powers, and functions of

the PPCC)

- Report on the feasibility of

expanding to powers of the

ECAN Board to absorb the

powers and functions of an

PPCC

LGU, PPCC/ECAN

Board

2) Passage of a resolution creating an

PPCC, specifying its mandate,

composition, powers and functions,

- City resolution forming the

PPCC

LGU

P a g e | 53



and frequency of meetings (among

other provisions)

3) Conduct regular meeting to discuss

the implementation of HCMP and

other issues

- Minutes of meetings ECAN Board, TNTA

B. Human

Resources

Development

B1. To capacitate

members of PPCC on

cave governance and

ecological concepts***

1) PPCC 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, 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 members trained PPCC/ECAN Board,

PCSDS

B2. To capacitate local

residents living near

Hundred Caves about

the importance and

benefits of 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

ECAN Board,

Community,

Barangay LGU,

TNTA

P a g e | 54



B3. To recruit and

capacitate "Hundred

Caves stewards and

protectors" among

local residents who

will look after the

cave, ensure its

security, and perform

regular cave

inspection and clean

up

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

ECAN Board,

Community,

Barangay LGU, Cave

Stewards and

Protectors, TNTA

2) Local residents deputized

as "Hundred Caves stewards

and protectors"

1) Deputation of cave stewards and

protectors

- Trained and deputized cave

stewards and protectors

PPCC, Community,

Barangay LGU, Cave

Stewards and

Protectors

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

PPCC, LGU, PCSDS,

Cave Stewards and

Protectors

B5. To visit existing

cave systems under

sustainable

management (e.g.,

Sagada, PPSRNP,

Tabon Cave)***

1) Visit to model cave

management system within

or outside Palawan

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

cave areas

LGU, PCSDS, Cave

Stewards and

Protectors

P a g e | 55



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 LGU, CPEO, TNTA,

Cave Stewards and

Protectors

B7. To purchase

enforcement devices

and equipments for

CPEOs

1) Purchase of cave

enforcement devices and

equipments

1) Canvass and buying of cave

enforcement devices and equipments

- No. of devices and

equipments acquired

PPCC, LGU, CPEO

C. Research and

Development

C1. To improve basic

knowledge on

Hundred Caves

ecosystem including

its socioeconomic

setting

1) Interdisciplinary field

surveys and research on

Hundred Caves 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

surrounding vegetation to

potential climate change

impacts, (c) ecotourism

carrying capacity studies,

and (d) socioeconomic study

of Hundred Caves and its

setting

1) Conduct of cave research in various

disciplines

- Outputs of scientific

researches undertaken in

Hundred 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

ECAN Board and local residents

- Presentations held Researchers, PPCC,

LGU, PCSD/S

P a g e | 56



D. IEC and

Advocacy

D1. To implement an

IEC and Advocacy

Plan for Hundred

Caves protection,

protection, and

management

1) Hundred Caves IEC and

Advocacy Plan formulated

1) Data gathering and conduct of

workshops to prepare an IEC and

Advocacy Plan

- Data gathered and

workshops held

PPCC, LGU, PCSDS,

Community

2) Writing of the IEC and Advocacy

Plan

- Hundred Caves IEC and

Advocacy Plan drafted

PPCC, LGU, PCSDS,

Community

2) Photography and video

documentation of Hundred

Caves

1) Documentation of the cave through

photography and video

- Photographs and videos

taken of Hundred Caves

PPCC, LGU, PCSDS,

TNTA

3) IEC and advocacy

materials for various media

(print, radio, television,

brochures, flyers, streamers,

posters, online/website,

social networking sites)

designed

1) Preparation of Hundred Caves IEC

materials

- No. of IEC materials PPCC, LGU, PCSDS,

Community

4) Dissemination of IEC

materials

1) Publication, broadcast, and

distribution of Hundred Caves IEC

materials

- No. of

communities/individuals

reached by IEC and

advocacy activities

DENR, PPCC, LGU,

PCSDS, Community

P a g e | 57



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, PPCC

E. Cave

Protection and

Management

E1. To enter into

MOA (between and

among PCSD, city and

barangay LGUs, and

land claimant/TNTA)

on cave ecosystem

conservation,

protection, and

resource use of

Hundred Caves

1) MOA on cave protection,

conservation, and

management specifying

controls on the regulation of

agricultural expansion

around the cave, and

administration of the HCMP

1) Dialogues/roundtable discussions

with all land owner/claimant of

Hundred Caves location and

resolution of any land use conflicts

- Land owner/claimant

consulted and conflicts

resolved

- Rules and responsibilities

of the TNTA, PPCC, and

PCSD identified

- Management agreement

settled

PCSD, LGUs,

Community, Land

Claimant/TNTA

2) Preparation of draft MOA

specifying responsibilities and

expected output of each stakeholder,

roundtable discussions on MOA

contents, and MOA signing

- MOA signed PCSD, LGUs,

Community, Land

Claimant/TNTA

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, PPCC, LGU,

Community

2) Monitoring of trees planted - Survival rate of planted

trees

DENR, PPCC, LGU,

Community

P a g e | 58



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

PPCC, 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

equipments

DENR, PPCC, LGU,

Community

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

Community

2. To reduce cave

threats and enhance

cave ecosystem

security

E3. To deputize Cave

Protection

Enforcement Officer

(CPEO)***

1) CPEOs deputized 1) Design of training module for

CPEOs

- CPEO training design,

materials, and kits

PCSDS

2) Recruitment and training of CPEOs

from barangay and city LGUs, local

NGOs, community organizations, IPs,

volunteers, and law enforcement

agencies (PNP, AFP, NBI)

- Training held PCSDS, PPCC,

LGUs, NGOs,

Community, PNP,

AFP, NBI

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

PPCC, CPEO

E4. To classify

Hundred Caves as

Class III cave

1) Hundred Caves classified

as Class III Cave

1) Submission of technical

recommendations to PCSD for cave

classification

- PCSD resolution

classifying Hundred Caves

as Class III cave

PCSD/S, PCMPCC

P a g e | 59



2) Submission of PCSD resolution to

DENR MIMAROPA for inclusion of

Hundred Caves in the national list of

assessed and classified caves

- Hundred Caves included in

the national list of caves

PCSD/S, PCMPCC,

DENR MIMAROPA,

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, PPCC/ECAN

Board

E5. To evaluate and

monitor the

implementation of the

HCMP and assess

cave management

effectiveness

1) Assessment of outputs

and indicators contained in

the HCMP

1) Semestral evaluation and

monitoring of HCMP

accomplishments

- Report on HCMP

monitoring and evaluation

PPCC, PCSDS,

Monitoring and

Evaluation Team (to

be created), Academe

2) Assessment of cave

management effectiveness

1) Annual assessment of cave


- Report on cave


PPCC, PCSDS,

Monitoring and

Evaluation Team (to

be created), Academe

F. Waste

Management

F1. To clean up the

cave and surrounding

areas regularly and

restore the cave's

aesthetics

1) Cleaning of plastic

wastes, bottles, and wood

debris in and around the

cave, as well as graffiti and

vandals inside the cave

1) Mobilization and clean up of cave

wastes, graffiti, and vandals

- Volume of waste

collected/cleaned up

PPCC, LGU,

Community, DepEd,

NGOs

- Cave features cleaned up PPCC, LGU,

Community

P a g e | 60



F2. To characterize

the wastes produced

in Hundred Caves 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

- Waste management plan

developed

PPCC, LGU,

Community, Cave

Stewards and

Protectors

2) Waste Management Plan

developed

1) Identification of applicable and

appropriate ways to manage wastes

- Waste management plan

developed

PPCC, LGU,

Community, Cave

Stewards and

Protectors

G. Zoning of Cave

and Cave

Periphery

G1. To clearly define

the boundaries/limits

of Hundred Caves

management area,

taking into

consideration the

direct and indirect

effects of human

activities in the cave

system

1) Boundary of Hundred

Caves management area

delineated

1) Survey and mapping of the vicinity,

inside the Hundred Caves and "impact

zones" around it

- Draft map of Hundred

Caves management area

PPCC, LGU,

Community, PCSDS,

PCMPCC

2) Presentation of Hundred Caves

management boundary to stakeholders

- Presentation of map and

finalization of map

PPCC, LGU,

Community, PCSDS,

PCMPCC

3) Printing of cave location maps and

posting of the map in the locality

- Map reproduced and

displayed in strategic areas

PPCC, LGU,

Community, PCSDS

P a g e | 61



4) Boundary demarcation using

suitable natural monuments (bio-

fencing) or non-destructive concrete

monuments AFTER seeking advice

from experts

- Monuments planted around

the cave

PPCC, LGU,

Community, PCSDS

G2. To prepare

existing land use/land

cover (LU-LC) map

around the cave

1) LU-LC mapping around

Hundred Caves

1) Data gathering, field work, ground

truthing, map production, social

ground truthing

- LU-LC map of Hundred

Caves

PPCC, LGU,

Community, 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 Hundred Caves area

- Demographic and cultural

information gathered

PPCC, 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 - Hundred Caves

management zones map

PPCC, LGU,

Community, PCSDS

G5. To prescribe

allowable and

prohibited uses in

each cave

management zone

1) Identified uses of the cave

(can be an input to the Cave

Visitor Management Plan)

1) Participatory zones use prescription - Well-defined uses for each

management zone

PPCC, LGU,

Community, PCSDS

G6. To pass a local

resolution or

ordinance prescribing

1) Resolution on Hundred

Caves system management

zone map and prescribed

1) SP deliberations, reconnaissance,

and preparation of draft cave

management zones map and

- Draft cave management

zones map (with cave buffer

zone) prepared

SP, PPCC, LGU,

Community, PCSDS,

NM

P a g e | 62



the zones and uses of

Hundred Caves

management area

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)

resolution

2) Public hearing on cave


- Stakeholder issues on cave


heard, discussed, and

addressed

SP, PPCC, LGU,

Community, PCSDS,

NM

3) Passage of a local ordinance

delineating cave management zones

and prescribing uses per zone

- City resolution adopting

Hundred Caves management

zones map and

allowable/prohibited uses per

zone (specifically ordering

cessation of land use

conversion in cave core and

buffer zones)

SP, PPCC, LGU,

Community, PCSDS,

NM

3. To establish a

"green tourism"

program for cave

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) 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

Hundred Caves exploration

ecotourism product

- Hundred Caves ecotourism

study prepared

PPCC, PCSD, NM,

DENR, LGU, DOT,

NHCP, Consultant

2) MOA drafted and signed 1) Develop a MOA governing

Hundred Caves ecotourism program

- MOA signed and entered

into

PPCC, PCSD, NM,

DENR, LGU, DOT,

P a g e | 63



NHCP

H2. To identify and

capacitate personnel

that will manage and

ensure that the “green

tourism” program for

cave is implemented

1) Designate a management

body, its structure and

personnel

1) Identify personnel needs and

qualifications who will manage the

cave

2) Interview and hire qualified

personnel

- List of Qualifications for

personnel identified

- Hiring of personnel

PPCC, LGU

1) Knowledge on cave green

tourism program increased

1) Conduct seminars and trainings,

moral value formation, and team

building activities

- Increased knowledge on

cave green tourism program

implementation

- Relationship, trust and

camaraderie among

personnel established

PPCC, LGU

H3. To formulate a

code of conduct for

visitors of Hundred

Caves (can be used as

input in the Cave

Visitor Management

Plan (CVMP) )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

Transparency among

community

members/conduct of regular

meeting

NM, PPCC, LGU,

PCSDS, DOT, City

Tourism Office,

Provincial Tourism

Office

2) Code of conduct

discussed among

stakeholders

1) Presentation of code of conduct for

cave visitors to stakeholders

Spiritual counseling among

members

NM, PPCC, LGU,

PCSDS, CTO, PTO,

DOT

P a g e | 64



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

PPCC, LGU

H4. To ensure legal

operation of the

Hundred Caves

Ecotourism Project

1) Secure necessary permits

from the LGU, PCSD and

other permitting agency

1) Coordination with permitting

agencies about their requirements

2) Submission of complete

documents/requirements

- Issuance of Permits TNTA

H5. To develop a cave

guide checklist and

appropriate itinerary

for Hundred Caves

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 do’s and

don’ts for cave guides and (b) tour

itinerary for cave visitors

- Cave guide checklist and

cave tour itinerary

NM, PPCC, LGU,

Cave Guides,

Tourism Officers,

CTO, 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, PPCC,

LGUs, NGOs,

Community

H7. To train cave

guides and local

tourism officers on

cave guiding skills,

first aid training,

hospitality

management, and

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

PPCC, LGU, Cave

Guides, Tourism

Officers, CTO, PTO,

DOT

P a g e | 65



good practices on cave

ecotourism

H8. To establish a

Cave Information and

Education Center

(CIEC) for briefing of

visitors/tourists and

promotion of Hundred

Caves tourism

products (Note: cave

stewards and

protectors and cave

guides can double as

staff of CIEC)

1) Cave Information and

Education Center (CIEC)

established, staffed, and

provided with educational

and promotional materials

and equipments

1) Scout for possible location of CIEC

building

- Building location

map/survey plan

PPCC, LGU,

Tourism Officers,

CTO, PTO, DOT

2) Design building of CIEC - Building design PPCC, LGU,

Tourism Officers,

CTO, PTO, DOT

3) Recruit staff of CIEC and establish

compensation scheme

- Staffing pattern PPCC, LGU,

Tourism Officers,

CTO, PTO, DOT,

Cave Guides, Cave

Stewards and

Protectors

P a g e | 66



4) Design interior of CIEC and

acquire educational and promotional

materials

- Interior design of CIEC PPCC, LGU,

Tourism Officers,

CTO

5) Training of CIEC staff on handling

visitors

- Trained CIEC staff CIEC Staff

H9. To ensure safety

of cave guides and

visitors while

exploring the cave

system

1) Construct appropriate

access safety measures

inside the cave and in trails

going to the cave

1) Identify hazard areas where access

safety measures can be established

and determine appropriate

kind/material to be used

- Access safety measures

installed

2) Designate areas to be

utilized in the tour

1) Delineate and demarcate areas

which will not be allowed to be

utilized in the tour

2) Install warning signs

- Hazard and risky areas

demarcated

PPCC, LGU, TNTA

3). Develop Cave Visitor

Management Plan

integrating Disaster Risk

Reduction Management

strategies

1) Coordinate with DOT and CTO on

the requirements for the development

of the CVMP

2) Identify cave visitors’ need and

requirements

3) Integrate appropriate disaster risk

- Cave Visitor Management

Plan developed including

activities to be offered, tour

routes, no. of persons and

duration per tour, etc as well

as strategies measures to

reduce disaster risk such as

determination of closed and

PPCC, LGU, TNTA

P a g e | 67



reduction strategies open access portions of cave

H10. To construct

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

CIEC)

1) Construction and

improvement of tourism

facilities

1) Find suitable location of tourism

facilities

- Location map/survey plan

of tourism facilities

PPCC, LGU, DOT,

DPWH, PCSDS

2) Construct facilities - Built tourism facilities PPCC, 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

PPCC, LGU, DOT,

Community

H11. To promote the

tourism products of

Hundred Caves

1) Include Hundred Caves in

the tourism hub of Puerto

Princesa City (including

PPSRNP and Ugong Rock)

1) Lobby to the City Tourism Council

to include Hundred Caves in the

tourism loop

2) Discussion among tourism

establishments

- inclusion of Hundred Caves

in the tourism hub of Puerto

Princesa and tourism

packages of establishments

PPCC, LGU, TNTA

P a g e | 68



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 Hundred Caves green

tourism

- Produced tourism

promotional materials

Provincial Tourism

Office, DOT, City

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, CTO, 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 province,

in Puerto Princesa City, and

near the cave

1) Production and installation of a

sturdy signage advertising the features

of Hundred Caves

- Signage produced and

installed in strategic sites

Provincial Tourism

Office, DOT, City

Tourism Office

H12. To study and

make an inventory of

cave-associated

archaeological,

anthropological,

geological, ecological,

historical, and

cultural features

1) Study of Hundred Caves

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, PPCC, LGU,

DOT, NHCP,

Academe

P a g e | 69



(including legends and

myths) which can be

promoted as tourism

products

H13. To study and

make an inventory of

other potential

tourism products in

Barangay Tagabinet

and Puerto Princesa

which can be tied up

to terrestrial cave

exploration***

1) Study of potential tourism

products in Tagabinet 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 Hundred

Caves identified

PPCC, LGU, DOT,

NGOs, Academe

H14. To conduct a

willingness to pay

(WTP) study for

potential visitors of

Hundred Caves which

can serve as basis of a

visitor/user fee

1) WTP for visiting Hundred

Caves determined

1) Contingent valuation study of

"non-use/existence value" of Hundred

Caves

- WTP study conducted Academe, Specialists,

Researchers,

Research Institutions,

NM, PCSDS

H15. To enact an

ordinance imposing a

reasonable cave

visitor/user's fee

(using WTP study as

basis)

1) City ordinance on cave

user's fee enacted

1) SP deliberations and public hearing

on proposed user's fee ordinance

- Minutes of SP session and

public hearing

LGU, PPCC/ECAN

Board

2) Passage of an ordinance on the

imposition of Hundred Caves user's

fee

- City ordinance on Hundred

Caves user's fee

PPCC, LGU, DOT

P a g e | 70



H16. To establish a

transparent system of

collection, financial

accounting/auditing,

and income sharing

from the use of

Hundred Caves

(consistent with

provisions of RA 7160

and RA 9593)

1) A fair and equitable

income sharing and financial

accounting system for

Hundred Caves

institutionalized

1) Roundtable discussions and

deliberations leading to a signed

MOA among LGU (through

PPCC/ECAN Board), Community,

DOT/TIEZA, PCSD, and NM

establishing income sharing and

collection and auditing system for the

proceeds of the use of Hundred Caves

- MOA on income sharing

signed

LGU, PPCC/ECAN

Board, City

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 Hundred

Caves

1) Sustainable livelihood

program compatible with

sustainable cave use

implemented

1) Livelihood needs assessment and

selection of potential beneficiaries

- Livelihood development

plan for Hundred Caves

LGU, PPCC/ECAN

Board, PCSDS,

Community, DSWD,

NGOs, TESDA, DTI

P a g e | 71



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

City 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

PPCC

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, PPCC,

Community

P a g e | 72


CHAPTER 7: IMPLEMENTATION SCHEME

ORGANIZATION STRUCTURE

The suggested organization structure of Hundred Cave (Figure24) 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 Puerto Princesa

Cave Committee (PPCC) which is supported by four committees, namely: the (1)

Scientific, (2) Development, (3) Promotion, and (4) Protection and Conservation

Committees. The PCMPCC and the PCSD will act as oversight body over the PPCC.

The Barangay and City LGU as well as Tagabinet Neighborhood Tourism

Association (TNTA) are attached to the PPCC as co-implementer of cave

management program.

Figure 29. Organization chart of Hundred Caves management structure

(adopted from Mohd Shafeea Leman et al. 2007) 16

The PPCC will be the lead management and coordinative body providing

direction and logistic support to cave management. It will have the same

management level with the PCMPCC and overseen by the PCSD. The PCSD,

through its District Management Staff, will monitor and provide necessary

advice on overall sustainable development of the cave.

16

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 Committee

Puerto Prinesa Cave

Committee

Scientific

Committee

Development

Committee

Promotion Committee

Protection and Conservation Committee

P a g e | 73


The PPCC will develop and maintain the cave’s infrastructures, facilities, and

activities. Its composition will include professionals from various fields

including archaeologists, administrative, and enforcement officers. It will be led

by the city mayor of Puerto Princesa or his representative.

Several institutions will play key roles as members of PPCC. They include the

National Museum, the Department of Tourism, 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

PPCC.

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, city and barangay LGUs, DOT, City Engineering Office,

City Planning and Development Office, City 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, City 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, City 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 PPCC.

P a g e | 74


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.

P a g e | 75


Table 12. Detailed Work Plan

OBJECTIVES RESPONSIBILITY

TIME FRAME

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

A. Policy Reform and Development

A1. To implement Hundred Caves Management Plan (HCMP)

1) Presentation of the HCMP before the

community, barangay LGU, DOT, PCSD, and

other stakeholders LGU, PPCC/ECAN

Board, PCSDS,

DOT, TNTA, Other

Stakeholders

2) Adoption of the HCMP by the LGU

3) Integration of HCMP to the City CLUP

4) Implementation of the actions prescribed in

the HCMP

5) Information, Education, Communication

(IEC) on the HCMP

A2. To form a Puerto Princesa Cave Committee who will administer the implementation of the HCMP***

1) Study the feasibility of organizing an PPCC

from the existing City ECAN Board

LGU, PPCC/ECAN

Board

2) Passage of a resolution creating an PPCC,

specifying its mandate, composition, powers

and functions, and frequency of meetings

3) Conduct regular PPCC meeting to discuss the

implementation of HCMP and other issues

B. Human Resources Development

B1. To capacitate members of PPCC and ECAN Board on cave governance and ecological concepts***

1) Attend training on cave governance,

planning, and management

PPCC/ECAN Board,

PCSDS

P a g e | 76



TIME FRAME

2016 2017 2018 2019 2020


Q

4

B2. To capacitate local residents living near Hundred Caves about the importance and benefits of Hundred Caves conservation and their role as protectors of cave

1) Attend general training on cave protection

and stewardship

PPCC, 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 PPCC, Community,

Barangay LGU,

TNTA, 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 PPCC, LGU,

PCSDS, Cave

Stewards and

Protectors

B5. To visit existing cave systems under sustainable management***

1) Lakbay-Aral PPCC, 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 PPCC, 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 PPCC, LGU, CPEO

P a g e | 77



TIME FRAME

2016 2017 2018 2019 2020


Q

4

C. Research and Development

C1. To improve basic knowledge on Hundred Caves 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,

PPCC, LGU

2) Presentation of research findings to PPCC

and local residents

D. IEC and Advocacy

D1. To implement an IEC and Advocacy Plan for Hundred Caves protection, protection, and management

1) Data gathering and conduct of workshops to

prepare an IEC and Advocacy Plan PPCC, LGU,

PCSDS, Community

2) Writing of the IEC and Advocacy Plan

3) Documentation of the cave through

photography and video

PPCC, LGU,

PCSDS

4) Preparation of Hundred Caves IEC materials PPCC, LGU,

PCSDS,

Community, DENR

5) Publication, broadcast, and distribution of

Hundred Caves IEC materials

6) Teaching of cave protection and conservation

in class*** DepEd, PPCC

E. Cave Protection and Management

E1. To enter into MOA on cave ecosystem conservation, protection, and resource use of Hundred Caves

P a g e | 78



TIME FRAME

2016 2017 2018 2019 2020


Q

4

1) Dialogues/roundtable discussions with all

land owner/claimant of Hundred Caves location

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, PPCC,

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 City LGUs, local NGOs,

community organizations, IPs, volunteers, and

law enforcement agencies (PNP, AFP, NBI)

PCSDS, PPCC,

LGUs, NGOs,

Community, PNP,

AFP, NBI

3) Deputation of CPEOs PCSD, PCSDS,

PPCC, CPEO

E4. To classify Hundred Caves 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 Hundred Caves in

PCSD/S, PCMPCC,

DENR

P a g e | 79



TIME FRAME

2016 2017 2018 2019 2020


Q

4

the national list of assessed and classified caves MIMAROPA,

RCC(?), NCC

3) Information drive about the classification of

the cave and its specific chambers/passages

LGU, PPCC/ECAN

Board

E5. To evaluate and monitor the implementation of the HCMP and assess cave management effectiveness

1) Semestral evaluation and monitoring of

HCMP accomplishments

PPCC, 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

PPCC, LGU,

Community, DepEd,

NGOs

2) Inventory and classification of wastes

3) Identification of applicable and appropriate

ways to manage wastes

G. Zoning of Cave and Cave Periphery

G1. To clearly define the boundaries/limits of Hundred Caves management area

1) Survey and mapping of the vicinity of

Hundred Caves and "impact zones" around it PPCC, LGU,

Community,

PCSDS, PCMPCC

2) Presentation of Hundred Caves management

boundary to stakeholders

3) Printing of cave location maps and posting of

the map in the locality

P a g e | 80



TIME FRAME

2016 2017 2018 2019 2020


Q

4

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

PPCC, LGU,

Community, PCSDS

G3. To gather demographic and cultural data of the area

1) Gathering of demographic and cultural data

of Hundred Caves area

PPCC, 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 PPCC, LGU,

Community, PCSDS

G5. To prescribe allowable and prohibited uses in each cave management zone

1) Participatory zones use prescription PPCC, LGU,

Community, PCSDS

G6. To pass a local resolution prescribing the zones and uses of Hundred Caves management area

1) SB deliberations, reconnaissance, and

preparation of draft cave management zones

map and resolution

SB, PPCC, 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

P a g e | 81



TIME FRAME

2016 2017 2018 2019 2020


Q

4

H1. To enter into a joint MOA on cave ecotourism development among cave and ecotourism authorities and stakeholders

1) Conduct a comprehensive study of Hundred

Caves exploration ecotourism product PPCC, PCSD, NM,

DENR, LGU, DOT,

NHCP, Consultant

2) Develop a MOA governing Hundred Caves

ecotourism program

H2. To identify and capacitate personnel that will manage and ensure that the “green tourism” program for cave is implemented

1) Identify personnel needs and qualifications

who will manage the cave

2) Interview and hire qualified personnel

3) Conduct seminars and trainings, moral value

formation, and team building activities

H3. To formulate a code of conduct for visitors of Hundred Caves 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, PPCC, LGU,

PCSDS, DOT, City

Tourism Office

(CTO), 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

H4. To ensure legal operation of the Hundred Caves Ecotourism Project

1) Coordination with permitting agencies about

their requirements TNTA, PPCC

2) Submission of complete

documents/requirements

H5. To develop a cave guide checklist and appropriate itinerary for Hundred Caves visitors

P a g e | 82



TIME FRAME

2016 2017 2018 2019 2020


Q

4

1) Formulate (a) checklist of do’s and don’ts for

cave guides and (b) tour itinerary for cave

visitors

NM, PPCC, LGU,

Cave Guides,

Tourism Officers,

CTO, PTO, DOT

H6. To develop a cave field guide with maps and photographs

1) Design and production of cave field guide

PCSDS, PPCC,

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

PPCC, LGU, Cave

Guides, Tourism

Officers, CTO, PTO,

DOT

H8. To establish Hundred Caves Information and Education Center or CIEC for briefing of visitors/tourists and promotion of Hundred Caves tourism products***

1) Scout for possible location of CIEC building PPCC, LGU,

Tourism Officers,

CTO, PTO, DOT

2) Design building of CIEC

3) Recruit staff of CIEC and establish

compensation scheme

PPCC, LGU,

Tourism Officers,

CTO, PTO, DOT,

Cave Guides, Cave

Stewards and

Protectors

4) Design interior of CIEC and acquire

educational and promotional materials

PPCC, LGU,

Tourism Officers,

CTO

5) Training of CIEC staff on handling visitors CIEC Staff

P a g e | 83



TIME FRAME

2016 2017 2018 2019 2020


Q

4

H9. To ensure safety of cave guides and visitors while exploring the cave system

1) Identify hazard areas where access safety

measures can be established and determine

appropriate kind/material to be used

2) Delineate and demarcate areas which will not

be allowed to be utilized in the tour

3) Install warning signs

4) Coordinate with DOT and CTO on the

requirements for the development of the CVMP

5) Identify cave visitors’ need and requirements

6) Integrate appropriate disaster risk reduction

strategies

H10. 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

PPCC, 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

PPCC, LGU, DOT,

Community

H11. To promote the tourism products of Hundred Caves

1) Lobby to the City Tourism Council to include

Hundred Caves in the tourism hub PPCC, LGU, TNTA

P a g e | 84



TIME FRAME

2016 2017 2018 2019 2020


Q

4

2) Discussion among tourism establishments

3) Design and drafting of promotional materials

for Hundred Caves green tourism

Provincial Tourism

Office, DOT, City

Tourism Office

4) Print, broadcast, distribute, publish, and post

cave tourism promotional materials

PTO, CTO, DOT,

Tourism

establishments in

Palawan (including

resorts, hotels,

restaurants, travel

agencies, and tour

operators)

5) Building and Installation of a sturdy signage

advertising the features of Hundred Caves

H12. To study and make an inventory of cave-

associated archaeological, anthropological,

geological, ecological, historical, and cultural

features which can be promoted as tourism

products

1) Research on cave-associated and other

cultural site-specific features

NM, PPCC, LGU,

DOT, NHCP,

Academe

H4. To study and make an inventory of other

potential tourism products in Barangay

Tagabinet and Puerto Princesa which can be

tied up to terrestrial cave exploration***

1) Research on tourism products and their

viability

PPCC, LGU, DOT,

NGOs, Academe

P a g e | 85



TIME FRAME

2016 2017 2018 2019 2020


Q

4

H11. To conduct a willingness to pay (WTP) study for potential visitors of Hundred Caves which can serve as basis of a visitor/user fee

1) Contingent valuation study of "non-

use/existence value" of Hundred Caves

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, PPCC/ECAN

Board, DOT

2) Passage of an ordinance on the imposition of

Hundred Caves user's fee

H13. To establish a transparent system of collection, financial accounting/auditing, and income sharing from the use of Hundred Caves (consistent with provisions of RA 7160 and RA

9593)

1) Roundtable discussions and deliberations

leading to a signed MOA among LGU (through

PPCC/ECAN Board), Community,

DOT/TIEZA, PCSD, and NM establishing

income sharing and collection and auditing

system for the proceeds of the use of Hundred

Caves

LGU, PPCC/ECAN

Board, City

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 Hundred Caves

1) Livelihood needs assessment and selection of

potential beneficiaries

LGU, PPCC/ECAN

Board, PCSDS,

Community,

P a g e | 86



TIME FRAME

2016 2017 2018 2019 2020


Q

4

DSWD, NGOs,

TESDA, DTI

2) Monitoring and evaluation of livelihood

implementation PPCC

I2. To provide financial and material support to livelihood beneficiaries

1) Fund sourcing for livelihood project

implementation

City LGU,

Provincial LGU,

Funding Agencies

and Institutions

(e.g., USAID, ADB,

World Bank, GIZ),

DTI

I3. To train livelihood beneficiaries on financial management

1) Training on financial management for

livelihood beneficiaries***

POs, DTI, PPCC,

Community

P a g e | 87


CHAPTER 8: MONITORING AND EVALUATION

AND FEEDBACK MECHANISMS

A first party monitoring and evaluation of Hundred Caves Management Plan (HCMP)

accomplishments will be undertaken. The PPCC will form a multi-party Monitoring and

Evaluation Team which will evaluate the output indicators contained in the HCMP 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 HCMP implementation are encouraged. The

institutions who are themselves part of the cave management regime are encouraged to do

their own auditing of the HCMP. 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

This Plan is designed to be flexible and adaptive; thus based on the evaluation and

assessment report, necessary adjustment of the management plan will be conducted.

.

P a g e | 88


CHAPTER 9: BUDGETARY REQUIREMENTS

a. Cost of Implementation

In most cases, plan or projects are not implemented due to lack of budget. Thus, it is

crucial that the budgetary requirements will be provided. The five-year budget for the

management of Hundred Caves is shown in Annex F.

b. 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)17

.

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 summarized in Table 13

which can be tapped for environment and sustainable development

programs and projects.

Foreign embassies and international foundations and NGOs.

Local foundations and NGOs.

The PPCC 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 aggressively develop project proposals and undertake fund sourcing from

external sources.

17

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.

P a g e | 89


Table 13. Local and International possible funding sources

Local International

Bilateral

International

Multilateral

Other

People’s Survival

Fund (National

Govt.)

Australian Agency

for International

Development

(AusAID)

Asian Development

Bank (ADB)

The Ruffus

Foundation (UK-

based charity)

Performance

Challenge Fund

(National Govt.)

Canadian

International

Development

Agency (CIDA)

Global Environment

Facility (GEF)

(especially the Small

Grants Program)

The Asia Foundation

(not-for-profit)

Foundation for the

Philippine

Environment (NGO)

Danish International

Development

Agency (DANIDA)

United Nations

Environment

Programme (UNEP)

Shared Earth

Foundation (US-

based)

Philippine Business

for the Environment,

Inc.

Department for

International

Development (DFID)

(United Kingdom)

United Nations

Development

Programme (UNDP)

Ford Foundation

(US-based)

Philippine

Development

Assistance Program

German Society for

International

Cooperation, Ltd.

(GIZ)

International Bank

for Reconstruction

and Development

(IBRD-World Bank)

Federation of

Peoples’ Sustainable

Development

Cooperative

(FPSDC)

Japan International

Cooperation Agency

(JICA)

International

Financing

Corporation (IFC)

Philippine Business

for Social Progress

Japan Bank for

International

Cooperation

Asian Development

Bank (ADB)

New Zealand

Agency for

International

Development

(NZAID)

Swedish

International

Development

Agency (SIDA)

United States

Agency for

International

Development

(USAID)

c. Financial Sustainability Mechanism

Income generated from the operation of the Hundred Caves as an ecotourism site will be used

in the management and maintenance of the cave. PPCC shall ensure transparent reporting of

the revenue and operation cost.

P a g e | 90


REFERENCES

2013 Barangay Development Plan. Barangay Tagabenit , Puerto Princesa City, Barangay

Development Council

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.

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).

P a g e | 91


ANNEXES

Annex A. 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

jurisdictions.

P a g e | 92



to caves

REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7586

(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 (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

P a g e | 93



to caves

designated as ―protected areas‖.

REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8371 (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;

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

P a g e | 94



to caves

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

REPUBLIC ACT NO. 9147 (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

P a g e | 95



to caves

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.

REPUBLIC ACT NO. 9593 (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 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.

P a g e | 96



to caves

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


(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

P a g e | 97



to caves

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,

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

P a g e | 98



to caves

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

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;

P a g e | 99



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 adequately

control, regulate and monitor all applicants for such

undertakings; and

P a g e | 100



to caves

(9) The provisions of this Act on explorations and

excavations of terrestrial and underwater

archaeological sites shall supersede all local, city,

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 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

P a g e | 101



to caves

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


(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/republ

ic_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

PHILIPPINES

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

content/uploads/2013/04/IDHis

SS.pdf

P a g e | 102


Annex B. 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/admin/admin6

S2008.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/resolu

tions/resolutions/admin/a

dmin8S2003.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



dmin8AS2003.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



dmin12S2011.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 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

P a g e | 103


Administrative Orders Subject Online reference Coverage/Remarks

PCSD, except as may hereinafter provided by the PCSD.

Annex C. 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 PALAWAN ACT

(RA 7611)

http://pcsd.ph/resolutions/resolu

tions/sep/res05-250.htm

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

P a g e | 104



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. 8, Series of 2003")


esolutions/licensing/res06-

277.htm


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. APPROVING THE 2010 UPDATED LIST OF TERRESTRIAL

AND MARINE WILDLIFE IN PALAWAN AND THEIR

http://pcsd.ph/resolutions/resolu The updated list of threatened terrestrial and

marine wildlife in Palawan and their categories is

P a g e | 105



10-413 CATEGORIES PURSUANT TO REPUBLIC ACT 9147,

OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE WILDLIFE RESOURCES

CONSERVATION AND PROTECTION ACT

tions/wildlife/res10-413.HTM found here:

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

ed%20list%20of%20threatened%20terrestrial%20

and%20marine%20wildlife%20series%20of%2020

10-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



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


P a g e | 106


Annex D. Mandate of agencies in the implementation of RA 9072

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 permittees as part of its oversight function;

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 city;

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

P a g e | 107



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

(NM)

Management and

protection of 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)]

Management and

protection of 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 of

Original Features of

All National Shrines,

Monuments,

Landmarks and Other

Important Historic

Edifices)

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.

Department of

Tourism (DOT)

Promotion of caves

classified for

ecotourism and in the

cave visitor

management in

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

P a g e | 108



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)

cave resources which is to be led by the PCSDS and;

With other agencies, assist the PCSDS in assessing the value

of a cave.

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 Officers for the protection

of caves and cave resources found inside CADTs/CADCs.

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Annex E. Photo Documentation

Plate 1. Planning Workshop for the Hundred

Caves Management Plan

Plate 4. Bamboo-made stair going

to the bat chamber Plate 3. Ms. Emily Pritchard, an Australian intern

rappelling in one of the cave sections

Plate 2. The assessment team members