Spearheaded by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region 8, the meeting convened member agencies to strengthen collaborative efforts in the protection, classification, and sustainable management of cave ecosystems in Eastern Visayas. The discussions centered on the effective implementation of Republic Act No. 9072, or the National Caves and Cave Resources Management and Protection Act, which serves as the legal framework for preserving the country’s cave resources.

A key highlight of the meeting was the presentation of updated assessment and classification results for seven caves across Region 8. These caves were evaluated based on their scientific, ecological, educational, and ecotourism significance, guiding future conservation and management strategies. The newly assessed sites include:

• Sagrada Familia Cave – Calubian, Leyte

• Kabyawan Cave – Matag-ob, Leyte

• Dose Pares Cave – Villaba, Leyte

• Opkol Cave – Jipapad, Eastern Samar

• Nakuparan Cave – Taft, Eastern Samar

• Alaag Cave – San Julian, Eastern Samar

• Suso Cave – Matuguinao, Samar

These assessments are critical in determining the appropriate level of protection and identifying potential for ecotourism or research development while ensuring ecological integrity is preserved.

In his guidance on environmental protection, DILG Region 8 Director Arnel M. Agabe emphasized the pivotal role of local government units in protecting the region’s natural assets:

“We urge our LGUs to take an active role in environmental governance. Protecting our ecosystems goes beyond ecological preservation—it is about securing biodiversity, promoting responsible tourism, and engaging communities in meaningful stewardship of their local resources,” he stated.

The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment from participating agencies to scale up joint actions on cave conservation. As a member of the RCC, DILG Region 8 reaffirmed its commitment to mobilizing LGUs in advancing sustainable environmental practices through sound planning, strict monitoring, and inclusive implementation of conservation policies.

Through sustained inter-agency coordination and stronger LGU engagement, the RCC aims to protect Region 8’s unique cave resources for the benefit of both present and future generations.