ZAMBOANGA CITY, Oct 10 (PIA) -- Protecting a cave entails preserving its ecosystem and ensuring the safety of the people.

Twelve (12) caves in Zamboanga Peninsula were classified as not suitable for tourism in the Regional Cave Committee (RCC) Meeting. The cave’s proper usage is the reason for the conduct of its classification. 

Ronald Gadot, RCC Chairman and Officer-in-Charge (OIC) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)-9, emphasized the significance of classifying the caves in the area, stating that there are dangerous caves that are used without classification, making it not feasible for tourists and relaxation.

“Zamboanga Peninsula has so many caves that need to be identified for its protection. Locating the caves will hinder their destruction while preserving the environment and wildlife. Caves are a source of water, using its eco-tourism is just a centavo while producing good quality water from the karts area of the cave would greatly contribute to the economy and the basic needs of the people,” Gadot said.  

In Zamboanga del Sur, Barubuhan Cave in the municipality of Sominot is placed in Class II while Estrella Cave in the municipality of Mahayag is placed in class I.

In accordance with DENR Memorandum Circular No. 2007-04, the Procedure in Cave Classification, caves are classified into three Classes: Classes I, II, and III.

Class I caves are those with delicate and fragile geological formations, threatened species, archaeological and paleontological values, and extremely hazardous conditions. Allowable use may include mapping, photography, and educational and scientific purposes.

Class II caves are those with areas and portions that have been in hazardous conditions and contain sensitive geological, archaeological, cultural, historical, and biological values or high-quality ecosystems. It may be necessary to close sections of these caves seasonally or permanently. It is open to experienced cavers or guided educational visits.

Zamboanga del Norte’s Cueva del Pasto Abajo and the Bongalao Cave in the municipality of Sibuco is placed in class 1 as well as Misok Cave in Sindangan, Pamag Cave in the municipality of Katipunan, Crampatanta Cave in Siayan and Zapanta Cave II in the municipality of Manuel Roxas. Meanwhile, Sozam’s Star Cave in the municipality of Jose Dalman is placed in class II.

In Zamboanga Sibugay, Guilayo Cave in the municipality of Naga is placed in Class II while both Caluyo Cave is under Class 1.

Class III caves are those with no known threatened species and archaeological, geological, natural history, cultural and historical values. It is safe for inexperienced visitors but should still be accompanied by a cave guide.

There aren’t any caves yet in the region that has been designated for tourism. The RCC continues to call on the people to help conserve and protect the caves in Zamboanga Peninsula.

“We identify these caves for us to protect them because within the cave there’s a lot of biodiversity present. Its small ecosystem should be functioning. If there will be more destruction in the cave, the ecosystem will not function thus biodiversity will not flourish within that area,” Gadot said.

Classifications of caves are done semi-annually as cavers in the Provincial Environment and Natural Resource Office (PENRO) and Community Environment and Natural Resource Office (CENRO) are given six months to explore various caves and cave systems in their locality to assess its physical and natural features and resources. (RVC/CCP/PIA9/photo courtesy from Department of Natural Resources-9)