Philippine Cave Classification System

The protection of caves is very important in maintaining these subterranean natural resources. However, spelunking is constantly gaining popularity in the local tourism. In order to protect these caves while being opened to tourism, a classification system is needed. Each class specify activities that are allowed in the cave assessed.

Caving classification

A cave is assessed by a team composed of experts and per existing guideline. The following are cave classifications:

Class I. Caves with delicate and fragile geological formations, threatened species, archeological and paleontological values, and extremely hazardous conditions. Allowable activities are limited to mapping, photography, educational and scientific purposes. Jessie cave in Apayao is Class I cave.

Class II. Caves with areas or portions which have hazardous conditions and contain sensitive geological, archeological, cultural, historical, and biological values or high quality ecosystem. It may be necessary to close sections of these caves seasonally or permanently. It is open to experienced cavers or guided educational tours/visits. Lussok cave in Apayao is an example of a Class II cave.

Class III. Caves generally safe to inexperienced visitors with no known threatened species and 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. Dangwa cave is a good example of Class III cave.

Procedure in Cave Classification

As identified in Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Memorandum Circular No. 2007-04, entitled Procedure in Cave Classification, the following are the general steps in cave classification:

Step 1. Identification of caves, including their location and general description through available topographic and cave maps and field reconnaissance surveys;

Step 2. Assessment of bio-physical, socio-economic and cultural status of identified caves;

Step 3. Recommendation of classification by the cave assessment team;

Step 4. Review of recommended classification by the Regional Cave Management Committee or the Protected Area Management Board (PAMB), in the case of protected areas; and

Step 5. Approval of classification by the Regional Executive Director.

Cave Assessment Team Composition

Cave assessment team shall be created in each CENRO by the Regional Executive Director to be composed of the following disciplines: biology, geology, socio-economics, and other relevant fields of expertise. The team shall include representatives from the other sectors concerned.

All Regions are required to submit to Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau (PAWB) their list of classified caves. PAWB shall consolidate and prepare list of classified caves. DENR shall publish a consolidated list of classified caves annually.

Reference:

DENR Memorandum Circular No. 2007-04. Procedure in Cave Classification [pdf file]. Retrieved on 16 December 2019 from http://www.bmb.gov.ph/index.php/e-library/laws-and-policies/denr-memorandum-circular-order/dmc-dmo-2007-2016