Cagayan, Philippines – Callao cave, a hotspot for archaeological discoveries, reopened on Monday, Oct. 16, its doors to tourists in a bid to revive the ecotourism industry in Peñablanca, Cagayan.
In 2020, the historic cave where the remains of the distinct species of ancient human called Homo luzonensis were obtained during previous excavations, was closed for preservation efforts amid the onslaught of the COVID-19 pandemic.
After three years of closure, the members of the Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) of the Peñablanca Protected Landscape and Seascape (PPLS) issued a resolution, giving a green light for the cave’s reopening.
Regional Executive Director of Department of Environment and Natural Resources Region 02 who chairs the PAMB said the move will help boost the economic conditions of vendors or stall owners, tourist guides, boat operators, and even the local government unit, the DENR Cagayan Valley reported.
In his talk during the soft opening on Monday, Governor Manuel N. Mamba underscored that the international treasure should be preserved for future generations.
“This [is a] UNESCO Heritage Site, hindi lang po atin 'to sa Cagayan, sa buong mundo din ito. We should take care of it. This defines not only the history of Cagayan, of the Philippines, but of mankind… Let us all be together in trying to make the best of what Callao can offer. Kaya tayo gumagawa ng maganda upang ipakita sa mga next generation that we have set a standard,” he said.
Tourists will enjoy a free visit to the cave from Oct. 16 to 27. After its grand opening set on Oct. 28, visitors will be charged an entrance fee of P100 each, while foreign visitors shall pay P200 each.
Students, including local residents, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities, will be charged P50 each. Children seven years old and below shall be free of charge.
Other fees for car parking, birthday or wedding photo shoots, and other purposes shall also be collected with rates currently being finalized by the PAMB.
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