Abra de Ilog develops ecotourism plan for Luyang Baga Cave

CALAPAN CITY, ORIENTAL MINDORO, Philippines — The local government of Abra de Ilog in Occidental Mindoro is drawing up a sustainable ecotourism management plan for Luyang Baga Cave to ensure its future development protects the natural site while promoting community participation.

The municipality conducted a three-day planning workshop from Oct. 27 to 29 in Sablayan, Occidental Mindoro, bringing together local government officials, barangay leaders and representatives of nearby Iraya Mangyan communities.

Mayor Maria Gloria Constantino joined representatives from various municipal offices, including the Municipal Planning and Development Office, Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office, Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, Engineering Office, Agriculture Office and Tourism, Culture and Arts Office.

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Barangay officials of Cabacao and representatives of the Iraya Mangyan communities living near the cave also participated in the planning sessions.

Discussions focused on developing sustainable tourism strategies, strengthening site management, improving visitor safety and experience, and ensuring community involvement in the cave’s conservation and future development.

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The local government noted that Luyang Baga Cave, classified as a Class II cave, is not yet open to the public.

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Access and tourism operations remain restricted pending the completion and approval of necessary permits and clearances from concerned authorities.

The ecotourism management plan is part of the preparatory process to ensure that any future tourism activities will be properly regulated, safe and environmentally responsible.

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The initiative seeks to balance tourism development with the protection of the cave’s natural features and ecological significance while recognizing the participation of surrounding communities.

According to the municipal government, the planning effort intends to preserve Luyang Baga Cave for future generations while laying the groundwork for responsible ecotourism. /cb