Cagayan de Oro has always been known for its natural beauty and vibrant culture, but recently, a road widening project in Sitio Sta. Cruz, Barangay Dansolihon, has unearthed a hidden gem – a brand new cave that promises to add to the city's list of attractions.
Dansolihon cave discovery!
The cave was discovered unexpectedly during routine construction work, much to the surprise and excitement of the local community and authorities. Upon its discovery, representatives from the City Local Environment and Natural Resources Office (CLENRO), City Tourism, and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) were quick to inspect the site. The initial inspections revealed that this new cave could potentially become a major tourist spot due to its unique formations and untouched natural beauty.
CLENRO has issued a public advisory strongly urging everyone to avoid entering or tampering with the newly discovered cave. This advisory comes in response to residents initially locating the cave during a road widening project by a bridge contractor in the area.
Engr. Armen Cuenca, the manager of CLENRO, quickly issued a warning as the cave began trending on social media. The allure of the cave's picturesque surroundings sparked curiosity among residents, prompting the need for this immediate caution.
Engr. Cuenca emphasized that the cave and any evidence found within it should not be disturbed, as laws protect these natural treasures. He explained that according to RA 9072 of 2001 (National Caves and Cave Resources Management and Protection Act) and RA 9147 (An Act Providing for the Conservation and Protection of Wildlife Resources and their Habitats), there are strict regulations in place. These laws state that:
Habitats for Wildlife: Caves are protected as they serve as habitats for wildlife.
Natural Heritage: Caves and their contents are declared as natural heritage sites.
Secrecy of Location: The location of newly discovered caves must remain confidential for a year until classified by the DENR for tourism or further studies.
These measures ensure the preservation and protection of the cave's ecosystem and prevent any potential harm from premature exposure.
Prior to the public advisory, thorough inspections were conducted by the relevant city offices, including CLENRO Cave Management, City Tourism Office, DENR, and the barangay council. These inspections are vital in creating a comprehensive understanding of the cave's structure and environmental significance.
Cagayan de Oro has been steadily growing as a hub for eco-tourism, and the discovery of this cave adds another dimension to its offerings. The city is already famous for its white-water rafting, scenic river views, and lush landscapes. The addition of a new cave could attract spelunkers, adventurers, and nature enthusiasts from all over the world, further boosting local tourism and providing new opportunities for community development.
As the investigations proceed, there is a palpable sense of excitement and anticipation. The local government is committed to working with environmental experts to ensure that the cave is studied, preserved, and eventually shared with the world in a responsible manner.
In the meantime, residents and tourists alike are encouraged to respect the restrictions and support the ongoing efforts to safeguard this new natural wonder. The future looks bright for Barangay Dansolihon and the entire city of Cagayan de Oro, as they await the day when this hidden treasure can be fully appreciated by all.
Stay tuned for updates as the story of this remarkable discovery continues to unfold.
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