Tuguegarao City, the capital of Province of Cagayan and the Regional Center of Cagayan Valley (region 2), is a major urban center in Northeastern Luzon and a Primary Growth Center of the region. Historically, it is important astheProvintial capital o9f the Province of Cagayan, as a trading center of Tobacco Monopoly and as the only center for higher education in Northeast Luzon.

The original inhabitants of Tuguegarao City were the Irayas and the Itawes, who built houses and subsisted on fishing, hunting, farming and livestock raising. They wove cloth and made household and farm implements.

On August 16, 1724. Tuguegarao celebrated its first patronal town fiesta with the completion of the elevated Ermita de San Jacinto. The provincial of Cagayan was transferred from Lal-lo to Tuguegarao on May 24, 1839, with the division of “ La Provincia de Cagayan” into southern part called Nueva Vizcaya, and the Northern part, which retained the name Cagayan.
Tuguegarao’s first school was established in 1892, formerly belonging to the Diocese of Nueva Segovia, Tuguegarao grew to become a separate Diocese in 1910. In 1975, it was made the Archdiocese of Tuguegarao. The schools, the government agencies and the church are greatly influenced the development of the town- its economy, its services and facilities and its people.
In 1975, Tuguegarao was chosen the center of region 02. By 1985, almost all national government agencies had established their regional offices in Tuguegarao, bringing to t he region varied and higher level government services and facilities. The Department of Finance classified Tuguegarao a First class Municipality in July 1993.
Today, Tuguegarao City (December 18, 1999) is bustling commercial, education and government center with tall buildings, sprawling school campuses and government sites. It is now an emerging metropolis and a backbone support to theCagayan Special Economic Zone and Free Port in Sta. Ana., Cagayan and the Cauayan City Regional Agro-Industrial Center in Isabela.
It has a total area of 144.8 square kilometers. The town is politically subdivided into 49 baranggays. In 2000, the City’s population was 120,645. Over the past and half decades, Tuguegarao’s economy slowly shifted from agriculture (primary) to secondary/tertiary economic activities. By providing goods, services and linkages,Tuguegarao allows the adjacent municipalities in Kalinga and Apayao (CAR), the coastal towns of Ilocos Norte ( Region 01) and the region industrial center and agricultural production areas to pursue their development functions in support to the over all regional role. Region 2 is envisioned as an “open growth area and international trade and industrial partner of the East Asian global economy.
It is the regional tourism service center because of its accessibility to the tourism attractions and because of the existence of reliable facilities for land, water and air transport, communication, power, health, protective services, and finance as well as amenities for dining, lodging, recreation and souvenirs shop.
Tuguegarao City is a transport pivotal point in Northern Luzon having three circumferential roads for traffic management. There are 15 bus companies, with both air-conditioned and ordinary buses, servicingTuguegarao City, along with numerous mini-buses, vans, jeepnees, kalesa’s and tricycles.
The Tuguegarao City Domestic Airport is modern Facility at 21.036 or 69 feet above sea level and is capable of servicing a 737 jet planes, small aircrafts, helicopters and army cargo planes also utilize the airport.
MAYOR RANDY TING AND THE PAV-VURULUN SPIRIT

Pav-vurulun means oneness or a sense of belongingness. It is in this context that Tuguegarao City annually celebrates its patronal fiesta. The week-long celebration is dubbed as a festival of activities.

The true Pav-vurulun spirit is not easy to attain. Cultural differences, as well as differing political affiliations and social orientations make for the difficulty in cooking up a sense of unity. Engineering the Pav-vurulun spirit requires genius and a lot of sweat.

But Tuguegarao City succeeds where others fail. A young man – Randy – has led over three terms of sanity and a working democracy in this northeastern center of excellence. A professed “transparency” executive, Mayor Randy S. Ting has amassed awards from various sectors for exemplary governance. His work ethic inspires people to set aside their differences and work together notwithstanding the discomfort.

The Pav-vurulun spirit is alive and well in Tuguegarao City. For as long as Mayor Randy is around.

SEARCHING FOR A TRUE PAGEANT WINNER

Tuguegaraoeños share the same favorite pastime among all Filipinos – beauty pageants.

This show is a spectacle parade of beauties in wondrously embellished gowns and shapely swimsuits. It is a grand exposure for young women to develop their talents and skills. It can also be a great venue for some women to voice out their opinions and become functional in society. Yet, there are others who see beauty pageants as nothing more than mere entertainment and a casual parade of flesh. For the male population in Tuguegarao, this is the most-awaited activity of the Pav-vurulun Festival. It is an occasion when their eyes feast with delight in the parade of beauties.

The city government conducts Miss Tuguegarao Pageant during fiesta celebration for how many years already. It has become a tradition, as old as the institution itself. This project gets the largest chunk of the cultural budget at P.6M this year. With the biggest budget allocation, this program does not only help young women but also other people.

Activities like these give chance to our fellowmen, most especially gay people, to make a living. This is a time for them to showcase their artistry in applying make-up and in conceptualizing the elements needed in various competitions for the pageant, from formal wear to festival costume. All these are intended for the promotion of our culture. Above these things, let us not forget that our main objective is to promote Tuguegarao’s culture and history as we celebrate in the Pav-vurulun spirit.

This year, we have a new set of candidates. Hopefully, we can draw from this batch a true pageant winner: someone who could confidently saunter it off through the contest and make the competition mean something beyond the usual catwalk, someone who can prove to people that a pageant can also showcase smarts and substance.

So that whoever will emerge as this year’s Miss Tuguegarao, she can confidently represent us and likewise, we, Tuguegaraoeños will proudly embrace her as our ambassadress.

Highlighting the eight-day Pav-vurulun Festival, 15 candidates vying for the Miss Tuguegarao crown came, “showed” and conquered the eager crowd at the People’s Gym last night where candidate number 11, Yvonne Sonja Groth bested 14 other candidates to win the title of Miss Tuguegarao City 2006.

Groth, who is half-Filipino and half-German also bagged Best in Talent, Broadway costume and Gown as well as other corporate awards such as Miss Myra-E, Ms. Manel’s Total and Ms. R.B. Acorda Pawnshop.

The chairman of the board of judges was no less than former Senator Nikki Coseteng who flew all the way from Manila to grace the occasion.

In front of an excited audience, 15 candidates vying for the title Little Miss Tuguegarao City took center stage last August 13, 2006 at the People’s Gymnasium with Millijoy Dennise M. Villanueva taking home the title.

Not even the strong rain can dampen the spirit of these young ladies as they went through the rigors of the beauty contest like pros compared to their adult counterparts.

Coming out in their broadway costume, the contestants brought the house down with their cute and unmatched modeling movements, creating a pandemonium as the audience jeered, shouted, and jumped out of joy and excitement.

Danielle Clare Tomas was crowned Little Miss Tourism, Myrisha Jehn dela Cruz is 1st runner-up, Precious Ann Donato is 2nd runner-up and Princess Joi Vidal is 3rd runner-up.

Little Miss Tuguegarao Millijoy Dennise Villanueva also outsmarted the other contestants by sweeping all minor awards, namely: Best in Broadway Costume, Best in Casual wear and Best in Gown.

This year’s search was made possible under the chairmanship of City Councilor Danilo L. Baccay with full support from the staff of the city government.

The question went this way: “Your parents decided to adopt a child, will you accept him or her as your brother or your sister?”

The answer was: “Yes, I will love her because my parents adopt a child so that I will have someone to play with.”

That was the question and answer portion of Little Miss Tuguegarao 2006 pageant where Millijoy Dennise M. Villanueva, young and talented as she is, answered the question that fascinated not only the judges but also the viewers during the pageant night.

Little Joy-joy, as she is fondly called, is from Libag Norte. She is just six years old but she can already express her thoughts using the English language. She was blessed with very loving and supportive parents, Dennis and Raquel Villanueva who were very proud of their daughter for winning the title.

PANCIT FESTIVAL AND THE PAV-VURULUN SPIRIT

Tuguegaraoeños are pancit-lovers. Go around and you can find a “pancitan” in every nook and cranny of the city.

The favorite Pancit Tuguegarao is called “pancit batil-patung”. It was called as such because the egg, which is cooked sunny side-up, is set on top of the noodles poured with meat and vegetables. The noodle, which is “miki” in the native tongue, is the main ingredient made from flour.

Pancit has become a staple of the Ibanags. It has become a favorite pastime. It has become Tuguegaraoeños’ way of life.

In 2003, the city government launched Pancit Festival as one of the activities of the weeklong fiesta celebration. The activity is a competition where fastest pancit-eaters are drawn from men and women category.

“Nu egga pav-vurulunan, pancit batil patung y mearrubang.” So goes the message printed in the shirts given to participants. In the Pav-vurulun spirit, we share “pancit”.

This year, we continue the three-year old custom, gathering all men and women from different barangays to challenge the record of eating ¾ kilos of freshly-cooked pancit consumed in 1 minute and .08 seconds last year. It’s a tough act to follow.

This is the challenge to this year’s contenders. The challenge to all of us, on the other hand, is to let the Pav-vurulun spirit be prolonged and more binding among us. This year, may the whole community feast in spirit and in the stomach. Let us all unite and shout “Long-live Tuguegarao City!”

Where to stay in Tuguegarao City:
Accommodation and Lodging Establishments:
• Hotel Roma
Rizal St, Tug. City, Cagayan
Tel.# (780) 844-1390/846-2565

• Ivory Hotel & Convention Center
Buntun Highway, Tug. City, Cagayan
Tel# (078) 844-1275

• Hotel Roma
Luna St, Tug. City, Cagayan
Tel# (078) 844-1057/2221/1539

• Hotel Candice
Luna corner Blumentrie st., Tug.City
Tel.# (0780 844-2001/2002

• Villa Victoria Hotel
National Highway, Pengue, Tug. City
Tel# (078) 844- 0436

• Villa Blanca Hotel
#08 Pattaui st.Ugac Norte, Tug. City
Tel#(078) 844- 1819

• Casa Ludivina Inn
Maharlika highway, Pengue, Tug city

• New Crown Lodge
Luna st. Tug. City

• Hotel Carmelita
#09diversion Road, Balzain, Tug. City

• Hotel Kimikarlai
Arellano Ext,Ugac Sur , Tug. City

• Hotel Vico
Aguinaldo st, Tug. City

• Hotel Elinas
Bonifacio st, Tug. City

Hotel Joselina
Agunaldo st, Tug. City
• Pampanguena hotel
Caggay, Tug. City

• Bed Fellow Inn
Mabini st, Tug. City

• Hotel Leonor

• Aras Lodge
Pengue Ruyu, Tug. City

• Red Roof Inn
Caggay, Tug. City

• Hotel Victoria
National High, Pengue Ruyu, Tug. City

Places to visit:
1. Callao Cave
“Located within the Peñablanca Protected Landscape; 24 kilometers from Tuguegarao. The seven-chambered Callao Caves boast of massive limestone and other rock formations, skylights, and a chapel. Other pristine and undisturbed caves with living rock formations in the area include Sierra Cave, Quibal Cave, Odessa-Tumbali Cave System, Jackpot Cave, Roc and San Carlos Caves, among others. These caves can be explored with guides from Sierra Madre Outdoor Club (SMOC), Adventures and Expedition Philippines, Inc. (AEPI), and North Adventours.
More than 300 caves dot the area, 75 of which have been documented by the National Museum since 1977. Within the area is the Pinacanauan River conducive for river rafting or boating, kayaking, fishing, and swimming while the mountains are perfect for trekking and mountaineering. Daily circadian flight of bats from a bat cave occur at dusk.”

2. Jackpot Cave
Located at Sitio Tumallo, Barangay Quibal in Peñablanca. At 115 meters, it is the second deepest cave in the Philippines. The cave has a walking-size passage, shafts and drops of varying depths that provide for a lot of rope works. Meandering streams and gour pools of varying sizes abound. A sump of undetermined depth backs up on wet season flooding the lower section of the cave to the roof as evidenced by large logs jammed in the roof of the cave. On the fifth spot is the Jackpot Cave also in Peñablanca, Cagayan. It is the second deepest cave in the Philippines at 115 meters. The cave has a walking size passage, shafts and drops of varying depths that provide for a lot of rope works. Meandering streams and pools of varying size abound inside the cave.

Cagayan Is Famous For
Iguig Calvary Hills
It showcases the larger-than-life-size 14 Stations of the Cross and is a favorite destination during the Holy Week.

Local Delicacies
Longanisa, peanuts and peanut products, carabao milk candy are some of the favorite pasalubong choices from the province

Cave Exploration
Caves of different classifications abound in the province, which makes it a spelunker’s paradise. The Peñablanca Protected Landscape, the northern corridor to the Northern Sierra Madre Natural Park, is home to some 300 caves, 75 of which have been documented by the National Museum and 30 have been mapped by the British Exploration Club and its local counterpart, the Sierra Madre Outdoor Club. On April 7-13, 2003, SMOC hosted the 24th Mountaineering Federation Philippines, Inc., Congress and Climb which was attended by some 200 outdoor enthusiasts.

Mountains & Forests
The province’s unspoiled mountains and forests are well recommended for outdoor activities like trekking, mountain climbing and exploration, camping, among others. These activities are also good sources of livelihood for the rural communities.

Rivers & Seas
Clean rivers and seas make the province ideal for water sports activities like swimming, boating, fishing, kayaking, and white river rafting. The lower basin of the Cagayan River is found in Aparri, Cagayan where a fluvial parade attended by more than a hundred fishing boats is being conducted every May 10. Also, the Cagayan River is the longest and widest river in the country. It starts from the Province of Nueva Vizcaya and snakes down to Cagayan.

Bridges
Magapit Hanging Bridge, built in the early seventies, is one of the first hanging bridges in Asia. Another bridge, Buntun Bridge, is the longest river bridge in the country. Both bridges span the mighty Cagayan River.

Basilica Minore of Our Lady of Piat
It is a favorite destination of pilgrims who pray for favors, healing, and other special graces. The image, which came from Macao, is said to be miraculous and is made of papier mache. Other brick churches constructed during the Spanish times are also a favorite destination by pilgrims. These churches are still unreinforced and are located along national highways.

Native Furniture
Export quality furniture made of softwood and hardwood and rattan products and furniture are among the popular buys from the province

Tuguegarao Pancit
Known locally as Batil Patung, the Tuguegarao Pancit is made of local noodles. Tourists are allowed to witness the actual preparation of this local delicacy in some local panciterias in Tuguegarao City

Peñablanca Caves
Callao Cave, just outside Penablanca, is ideal for the traveler who wants a brief taste of the underground. But the region is packed with dozens of other caves, some partially explored, others still virgin. Sierra, only a 15-minute walk from Callao, has huge chambers filled with white, crystal-studded columns. At Odessa, a cave system with over 8km of known passages and others yet to be explored, spelunkers pass through elephant-sized walkways and narrow, tortuous squeezes. Formations include calcite grottoes and crystalline flowstones. Another cave, Heaven, has a fantastic chamber, which is a highlight of the underground experience. Heaven can be hellish to get to, but those who have been there agree that it’s worth the effort.

Tuguegarao City, the capital of Province of Cagayan and the Regional Center of Cagayan Valley (region 2), is a major urban center in Northeastern Luzon and a Primary Growth Center of the region. Historically, it is important astheProvintial capital o9f the Province of Cagayan, as a trading center of Tobacco Monopoly and as the only center for higher education in Northeast Luzon.
The original inhabitants of Tuguegarao City were the Irayas and the Itawes, who built houses and subsisted on fishing, hunting, farming and livestock raising. They wove cloth and made household and farm implements.
On August 16, 1724. Tuguegarao celebrated its first patronal town fiesta with the completion of the elevated Ermita de San Jacinto. The provincial of Cagayan was transferred from Lal-lo to Tuguegarao on May 24, 1839, with the division of “ La Provincia de Cagayan” into southern part called Nueva Vizcaya, and the Northern part, which retained the name Cagayan.
Tuguegarao’s first school was established in 1892, formerly belonging to the Diocese of Nueva Segovia, Tuguegarao grew to become a separate Diocese in 1910. In 1975, it was made the Archdiocese of Tuguegarao. The schools, the government agencies and the church are greatly influenced the development of the town- its economy, its services and facilities and its people.
In 1975, Tuguegarao was chosen the center of region 02. By 1985, almost all national government agencies had established their regional offices in Tuguegarao, bringing to t he region varied and higher level government services and facilities. The Department of Finance classified Tuguegarao a First class Municipality in July 1993.
Today, Tuguegarao City (December 18, 1999) is bustling commercial, education and government center with tall buildings, sprawling school campuses and government sites. It is now an emerging metropolis and a backbone support to theCagayan Special Economic Zone and Free Port in Sta. Ana., Cagayan and the Cauayan City Regional Agro-Industrial Center in Isabela.
It has a total area of 144.8 square kilometers. The town is politically subdivided into 49 baranggays. In 2000, the City’s population was 120,645. Over the past and half decades, Tuguegarao’s economy slowly shifted from agriculture (primary) to secondary/tertiary economic activities. By providing goods, services and linkages,Tuguegarao allows the adjacent municipalities in Kalinga and Apayao (CAR), the coastal towns of Ilocos Norte ( Region 01) and the region industrial center and agricultural production areas to pursue their development functions in support to the over all regional role. Region 2 is envisioned as an “open growth area and international trade and industrial partner of the East Asian global economy.
It is the regional tourism service center because of its accessibility to the tourism attractions and because of the existence of reliable facilities for land, water and air transport, communication, power, health, protective services, and finance as well as amenities for dining, lodging, recreation and souvenirs shop.
Tuguegarao City is a transport pivotal point in Northern Luzon having three circumferential roads for traffic management. There are 15 bus companies, with both air-conditioned and ordinary buses, servicingTuguegarao City, along with numerous mini-buses, vans, jeepnees, kalesa’s and tricycles.
The Tuguegarao City Domestic Airport is modern Facility at 21.036 or 69 feet above sea level and is capable of servicing a 737 jet planes, small aircrafts, helicopters and army cargo planes also utilize the airport.
MAYOR RANDY TING AND THE PAV-VURULUN SPIRIT

Pav-vurulun means oneness or a sense of belongingness. It is in this context that Tuguegarao City annually celebrates its patronal fiesta. The week-long celebration is dubbed as a festival of activities.

The true Pav-vurulun spirit is not easy to attain. Cultural differences, as well as differing political affiliations and social orientations make for the difficulty in cooking up a sense of unity. Engineering the Pav-vurulun spirit requires genius and a lot of sweat.

But Tuguegarao City succeeds where others fail. A young man – Randy – has led over three terms of sanity and a working democracy in this northeastern center of excellence. A professed “transparency” executive, Mayor Randy S. Ting has amassed awards from various sectors for exemplary governance. His work ethic inspires people to set aside their differences and work together notwithstanding the discomfort.

The Pav-vurulun spirit is alive and well in Tuguegarao City. For as long as Mayor Randy is around.

SEARCHING FOR A TRUE PAGEANT WINNER

Tuguegaraoeños share the same favorite pastime among all Filipinos – beauty pageants.

This show is a spectacle parade of beauties in wondrously embellished gowns and shapely swimsuits. It is a grand exposure for young women to develop their talents and skills. It can also be a great venue for some women to voice out their opinions and become functional in society. Yet, there are others who see beauty pageants as nothing more than mere entertainment and a casual parade of flesh. For the male population in Tuguegarao, this is the most-awaited activity of the Pav-vurulun Festival. It is an occasion when their eyes feast with delight in the parade of beauties.

The city government conducts Miss Tuguegarao Pageant during fiesta celebration for how many years already. It has become a tradition, as old as the institution itself. This project gets the largest chunk of the cultural budget at P.6M this year. With the biggest budget allocation, this program does not only help young women but also other people.

Activities like these give chance to our fellowmen, most especially gay people, to make a living. This is a time for them to showcase their artistry in applying make-up and in conceptualizing the elements needed in various competitions for the pageant, from formal wear to festival costume. All these are intended for the promotion of our culture. Above these things, let us not forget that our main objective is to promote Tuguegarao’s culture and history as we celebrate in the Pav-vurulun spirit.

This year, we have a new set of candidates. Hopefully, we can draw from this batch a true pageant winner: someone who could confidently saunter it off through the contest and make the competition mean something beyond the usual catwalk, someone who can prove to people that a pageant can also showcase smarts and substance.

So that whoever will emerge as this year’s Miss Tuguegarao, she can confidently represent us and likewise, we, Tuguegaraoeños will proudly embrace her as our ambassadress.

Highlighting the eight-day Pav-vurulun Festival, 15 candidates vying for the Miss Tuguegarao crown came, “showed” and conquered the eager crowd at the People’s Gym last night where candidate number 11, Yvonne Sonja Groth bested 14 other candidates to win the title of Miss Tuguegarao City 2006.

Groth, who is half-Filipino and half-German also bagged Best in Talent, Broadway costume and Gown as well as other corporate awards such as Miss Myra-E, Ms. Manel’s Total and Ms. R.B. Acorda Pawnshop.

The chairman of the board of judges was no less than former Senator Nikki Coseteng who flew all the way from Manila to grace the occasion.

In front of an excited audience, 15 candidates vying for the title Little Miss Tuguegarao City took center stage last August 13, 2006 at the People’s Gymnasium with Millijoy Dennise M. Villanueva taking home the title.

Not even the strong rain can dampen the spirit of these young ladies as they went through the rigors of the beauty contest like pros compared to their adult counterparts.

Coming out in their broadway costume, the contestants brought the house down with their cute and unmatched modeling movements, creating a pandemonium as the audience jeered, shouted, and jumped out of joy and excitement.

Danielle Clare Tomas was crowned Little Miss Tourism, Myrisha Jehn dela Cruz is 1st runner-up, Precious Ann Donato is 2nd runner-up and Princess Joi Vidal is 3rd runner-up.

Little Miss Tuguegarao Millijoy Dennise Villanueva also outsmarted the other contestants by sweeping all minor awards, namely: Best in Broadway Costume, Best in Casual wear and Best in Gown.

This year’s search was made possible under the chairmanship of City Councilor Danilo L. Baccay with full support from the staff of the city government.

The question went this way: “Your parents decided to adopt a child, will you accept him or her as your brother or your sister?”

The answer was: “Yes, I will love her because my parents adopt a child so that I will have someone to play with.”

That was the question and answer portion of Little Miss Tuguegarao 2006 pageant where Millijoy Dennise M. Villanueva, young and talented as she is, answered the question that fascinated not only the judges but also the viewers during the pageant night.

Little Joy-joy, as she is fondly called, is from Libag Norte. She is just six years old but she can already express her thoughts using the English language. She was blessed with very loving and supportive parents, Dennis and Raquel Villanueva who were very proud of their daughter for winning the title.

PANCIT FESTIVAL AND THE PAV-VURULUN SPIRIT

Tuguegaraoeños are pancit-lovers. Go around and you can find a “pancitan” in every nook and cranny of the city.

The favorite Pancit Tuguegarao is called “pancit batil-patung”. It was called as such because the egg, which is cooked sunny side-up, is set on top of the noodles poured with meat and vegetables. The noodle, which is “miki” in the native tongue, is the main ingredient made from flour.

Pancit has become a staple of the Ibanags. It has become a favorite pastime. It has become Tuguegaraoeños’ way of life.

In 2003, the city government launched Pancit Festival as one of the activities of the weeklong fiesta celebration. The activity is a competition where fastest pancit-eaters are drawn from men and women category.

“Nu egga pav-vurulunan, pancit batil patung y mearrubang.” So goes the message printed in the shirts given to participants. In the Pav-vurulun spirit, we share “pancit”.

This year, we continue the three-year old custom, gathering all men and women from different barangays to challenge the record of eating ¾ kilos of freshly-cooked pancit consumed in 1 minute and .08 seconds last year. It’s a tough act to follow.

This is the challenge to this year’s contenders. The challenge to all of us, on the other hand, is to let the Pav-vurulun spirit be prolonged and more binding among us. This year, may the whole community feast in spirit and in the stomach. Let us all unite and shout “Long-live Tuguegarao City!”

Where to stay in Tuguegarao City:
Accommodation and Lodging Establishments:
• Hotel Roma
Rizal St, Tug. City, Cagayan
Tel.# (780) 844-1390/846-2565

• Ivory Hotel & Convention Center
Buntun Highway, Tug. City, Cagayan
Tel# (078) 844-1275

• Hotel Roma
Luna St, Tug. City, Cagayan
Tel# (078) 844-1057/2221/1539

• Hotel Candice
Luna corner Blumentrie st., Tug.City
Tel.# (0780 844-2001/2002

• Villa Victoria Hotel
National Highway, Pengue, Tug. City
Tel# (078) 844- 0436

• Villa Blanca Hotel
#08 Pattaui st.Ugac Norte, Tug. City
Tel#(078) 844- 1819

• Casa Ludivina Inn
Maharlika highway, Pengue, Tug city

• New Crown Lodge
Luna st. Tug. City

• Hotel Carmelita
#09diversion Road, Balzain, Tug. City

• Hotel Kimikarlai
Arellano Ext,Ugac Sur , Tug. City

• Hotel Vico
Aguinaldo st, Tug. City

• Hotel Elinas
Bonifacio st, Tug. City

Hotel Joselina
Agunaldo st, Tug. City
• Pampanguena hotel
Caggay, Tug. City

• Bed Fellow Inn
Mabini st, Tug. City

• Hotel Leonor

• Aras Lodge
Pengue Ruyu, Tug. City

• Red Roof Inn
Caggay, Tug. City

• Hotel Victoria
National High, Pengue Ruyu, Tug. City

Places to visit:
1. Callao Cave
“Located within the Peñablanca Protected Landscape; 24 kilometers from Tuguegarao. The seven-chambered Callao Caves boast of massive limestone and other rock formations, skylights, and a chapel. Other pristine and undisturbed caves with living rock formations in the area include Sierra Cave, Quibal Cave, Odessa-Tumbali Cave System, Jackpot Cave, Roc and San Carlos Caves, among others. These caves can be explored with guides from Sierra Madre Outdoor Club (SMOC), Adventures and Expedition Philippines, Inc. (AEPI), and North Adventours.
More than 300 caves dot the area, 75 of which have been documented by the National Museum since 1977. Within the area is the Pinacanauan River conducive for river rafting or boating, kayaking, fishing, and swimming while the mountains are perfect for trekking and mountaineering. Daily circadian flight of bats from a bat cave occur at dusk.”

2. Jackpot Cave
Located at Sitio Tumallo, Barangay Quibal in Peñablanca. At 115 meters, it is the second deepest cave in the Philippines. The cave has a walking-size passage, shafts and drops of varying depths that provide for a lot of rope works. Meandering streams and gour pools of varying sizes abound. A sump of undetermined depth backs up on wet season flooding the lower section of the cave to the roof as evidenced by large logs jammed in the roof of the cave. On the fifth spot is the Jackpot Cave also in Peñablanca, Cagayan. It is the second deepest cave in the Philippines at 115 meters. The cave has a walking size passage, shafts and drops of varying depths that provide for a lot of rope works. Meandering streams and pools of varying size abound inside the cave.

Cagayan Is Famous For
Iguig Calvary Hills
It showcases the larger-than-life-size 14 Stations of the Cross and is a favorite destination during the Holy Week.

Local Delicacies
Longanisa, peanuts and peanut products, carabao milk candy are some of the favorite pasalubong choices from the province

Cave Exploration
Caves of different classifications abound in the province, which makes it a spelunker’s paradise. The Peñablanca Protected Landscape, the northern corridor to the Northern Sierra Madre Natural Park, is home to some 300 caves, 75 of which have been documented by the National Museum and 30 have been mapped by the British Exploration Club and its local counterpart, the Sierra Madre Outdoor Club. On April 7-13, 2003, SMOC hosted the 24th Mountaineering Federation Philippines, Inc., Congress and Climb which was attended by some 200 outdoor enthusiasts.

Mountains & Forests
The province’s unspoiled mountains and forests are well recommended for outdoor activities like trekking, mountain climbing and exploration, camping, among others. These activities are also good sources of livelihood for the rural communities.

Rivers & Seas
Clean rivers and seas make the province ideal for water sports activities like swimming, boating, fishing, kayaking, and white river rafting. The lower basin of the Cagayan River is found in Aparri, Cagayan where a fluvial parade attended by more than a hundred fishing boats is being conducted every May 10. Also, the Cagayan River is the longest and widest river in the country. It starts from the Province of Nueva Vizcaya and snakes down to Cagayan.

Bridges
Magapit Hanging Bridge, built in the early seventies, is one of the first hanging bridges in Asia. Another bridge, Buntun Bridge, is the longest river bridge in the country. Both bridges span the mighty Cagayan River.

Basilica Minore of Our Lady of Piat
It is a favorite destination of pilgrims who pray for favors, healing, and other special graces. The image, which came from Macao, is said to be miraculous and is made of papier mache. Other brick churches constructed during the Spanish times are also a favorite destination by pilgrims. These churches are still unreinforced and are located along national highways.

Native Furniture
Export quality furniture made of softwood and hardwood and rattan products and furniture are among the popular buys from the province

Tuguegarao Pancit
Known locally as Batil Patung, the Tuguegarao Pancit is made of local noodles. Tourists are allowed to witness the actual preparation of this local delicacy in some local panciterias in Tuguegarao City

Peñablanca Caves
Callao Cave, just outside Penablanca, is ideal for the traveler who wants a brief taste of the underground. But the region is packed with dozens of other caves, some partially explored, others still virgin. Sierra, only a 15-minute walk from Callao, has huge chambers filled with white, crystal-studded columns. At Odessa, a cave system with over 8km of known passages and others yet to be explored, spelunkers pass through elephant-sized walkways and narrow, tortuous squeezes. Formations include calcite grottoes and crystalline flowstones. Another cave, Heaven, has a fantastic chamber, which is a highlight of the underground experience. Heaven can be hellish to get to, but those who have been there agree that it’s worth the effort.

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ECOTOURISM PRACTICES AND ORDINANCES
LEAVE NO TRACE – Center for Outdoor Ethics
Plan Ahead and Prepare
• Know the regulations and special concerns for the area you’ll visit.
• Prepare for extreme weather, hazards, and emergencies.
• Schedule your trip to avoid times of high use.
• Visit in small groups when possible. Consider splitting larger groups into smaller groups.
• Repackage food to minimize waste.
• Use a map and compass to eliminate the use of marking paint, rock cairns or flagging.
Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
• Durable surfaces include established trails and campsites, rock, gravel, dry grasses or snow.
• Protect riparian areas by camping at least 200 feet from lakes and streams.
• Good campsites are found, not made. Altering a site is not necessary.
In popular areas:
• Concentrate use on existing trails and campsites.
• Walk single file in the middle of the trail, even when wet or muddy.
• Keep campsites small. Focus activity in areas where vegetation is absent.
• In pristine areas:
• Disperse use to prevent the creation of campsites and trails.
Leave What You Find
• Preserve the past: examine, but do not touch, cultural or historic structures and artifacts.
• Leave rocks, plants and other natural objects as you find them.
• Avoid introducing or transporting non-native species.
• Do not build structures, furniture, or dig trenches.
Minimize Campfire Impacts
• Campfires can cause lasting impacts to the backcountry. Use a lightweight stove for cooking and enjoy a candle lantern for light.
• Where fires are permitted, use established fire rings, fire pans, or mound fires.
• Keep fires small. Only use sticks from the ground that can be broken by hand.
• Burn all wood and coals to ash, put out campfires completely, then scatter cool ashes.
Respect Wildlife
• Observe wildlife from a distance. Do not follow or approach them.
• Never feed animals. Feeding wildlife damages their health, alters natural behaviors, and exposes them to predators and other dangers.
• Protect wildlife and your food by storing rations and trash securely.
• Control pets at all times, or leave them at home.
• Avoid wildlife during sensitive times: mating, nesting, raising young, or winter.
Dispose of Waste Properly
• Pack it in, pack it out. Inspect your campsite and rest areas for trash or spilled foods. Pack out all trash, leftover food, and litter.
• Deposit solid human waste in catholes dug 6 to 8 inches deep at least 200 feet from water, camp, and trails. Cover and disguise the cathole when finished.
• Pack out toilet paper and hygiene products.
• To wash yourself or your dishes, carry water 200 feet away from streams or lakes and use small amounts of biodegradable soap. Scatter strained dishwater.
Be Considerate of Other Visitors
• Respect other visitors and protect the quality of their experience.
• Be courteous. Yield to other users on the trail.
• Step to the downhill side of the trail when encountering pack stock.
• Take breaks and camp away from trails and other visitors.
• Let nature’s sounds prevail. Avoid loud voices and noises

Republic of the Philippines
PALAWAN COUNCIL FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
(R.A. 7611)
Puerto Princesa City, Palawan
PCSD RESOLUTION NO. 99-148
RESOLUTION RESPECTFULLY REQUESTING HIS EXCELLENCY, PRESIDENT JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA TO DECLARE PALAWAN AS ECO-TOURISM CAPITAL OF THE PHILIPPINES
WHEREAS, Republic Act No. 7611 also known as the Strategic Plan for Palawan (SEP) Act was approved on June 19, 1992 as the comprehensive framework for the sustainable development of Palawan, compatible with protecting the natural resources and endangered environment of the province and shall guide the local government units and the government agencies concerned in the formulation and implementation of plans, programs and projects affecting the province;
WHEREAS, Section 16 of Republic Act No. 7611 provides that the governance, implementation and policy direction of the SEP shall be exercised by the Palawan Council for Sustainable Development (PCSD), under the Office of the President;
WHEREAS, Section 7 of said Act provides for the Environmentally Critical Area Network (ECAN) which is a graded system of protection and development control over the whole of Palawan, including its terrestrial, coastal/marine and tribal ancestral lands as well as specific areas for tourism and recreation;
WHEREAS, owing to the geographic location and the economic potentials of the province, the PCSD in 1994 requested for the inclusion of Palawan in the East Asean growth polygon known as the Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines – East Asean Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA);
WHEREAS, the ADB Investigative study on this growth area recommended a special development approach for Palawan due to its ecological conditions and specifically identified the tourism potentials as the main attraction of the province;
WHEREAS, in order to further develop the province’s tourism potentials and to increase tourism arrival, there is a need to declare Palawan as the ecotourism capital of the country;
WHEREFORE, on motion of Assemblyman Ali Montaha D.H. Babao, unanimously seconded by the members present, be it:
RESOLVED, as it is hereby RESOLVED, to respectfully request HIS EXCELLENCY, PRESIDENT JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA to declare Palawan as ecotourism capital of the Philippines.
RESOLVED FINALLY, that copies of this resolution be furnished the Office of Honorable Sebastian Angliongto, Chairman, Mindanao Economic Development Council and Honorable Gemma Cruz-Araneta, Secretary, Department of Tourism.
APPROVED and ADOPTED this 24th day of September 1999 in Quezon City.
I hereby certify to the correctness and accuracy of the above-quoted resolution.
ATTY. JOSELITO C. ALISUAG
Secretary
APPROVED:

ALFREDO E. ABUEG,JR.
Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives
Chairman, Palawan Council for Sustainable
Development

Palawan Council for Sustainable Development

The legitimization of Republic Act 7611 or the Strategic Environmental Plan for Palawan Act launched not only a distinct and proactive law but also introduced a unique body that carries powerful responsibility and locally working only in one province like Palawan. While SEP is a national law, its effectivity covers only Palawan. This body is called the Palawan Council for Sustainable Development (PCSD).

The PCSD is a multi-sectoral and inter-disciplinary body, which under the law is charged with the governance, implementation and policy direction of the SEP. It is directly under the Office of the President of the Republic of the Philippines.
Functions
1. Formulate plans and policies as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act;
2. Coordinate with the local governments to ensure that the latter’s plans, programs and projects are aligned with the plans, programs and policies of the SEP;
3. Coordinate with local government and private agencies/organizations for cooperation and assistance in the performance of its functions;
4. Arrange, negotiate for, and accept donations, grants, gifts, loans, and other funding from domestic and foreign sources to carry out the activities and purposes of the SEP;
5. Recommend to the Congress of the Philippines such matters that may require legislation in support of the objectives of the SEP;
6. Delegate its powers and functions to its Support Staff;
7. Establish policies and guidelines on compensation and staffing pattern;
8. Adopt, amend and rescind such rules and regulations related to the SEP;
9. Enforce the provisions of the SEP Law;
10. Perform related functions which shall promote the development, conservation, management, protection, and utilization of the natural resources of Palawan.

REPUBLIC ACT 7611
AN ACT ADOPTING THE STRATEGIC ENVIRONMENT PLAN FOR PALAWAN, CREATING THE ADMINISTRATIVE MACHINERY TO ITS IMPLEMENTATION, CONVERTING THE PALAWAN INTEGRATED AREA DEVELOPMENT PROJECT OFFICE TO ITS SUPPORT STAFF, PROVIDING FUNDS THEREFOR, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress assembled:
CHAPTER I
GENERAL PROVISIONS
SEC. I Title – This Act shall be known as the “Strategic Environmental Plan (SEP) for Palawan Act.”
SEC. 2 Declaration of Policy – It is hereby declared the policy of the State to protect, develop and conserve its natural resources . Toward this end, it shall assist and support the implementation of plans, programs and projects formulated to preserve and enhance the environment, and at the same time pursue the socio-economic development goals of the country.
It shall support and promote the sustainable development goals for the provinces through proper conservation, utilization and development of natural resources to provide optimum yields on a continuing basis. With specific reference to forest resources, the State shall pursue and implement forest conservation and protection through the imposition of a total commercial logging ban as hereinafter provided.
It shall also adopt the necessary measures leading to the creation of an institutional machinery including among others, fiscal and financial programs to ensure the effective and efficient implementation of environmental plans, programs and projects.
It shall also promote and encourage the involvement of all sectors of society and maximize people participation (including tribal groups) in natural resource management, conservation and protection.
SEC. 3 Definition of Terms. – As used in this Act, the following terms are defined as follows:
(1) “Palawan” refers to the Philippine province composed of islands and islets located 7’47′ and 12’22′ north latitude and 117’00′ and 119’51′ east longitude, generally bounded by the South China Sea to the northwest and by the Sulu Sea to the east.
(2) “Sustainable development” means the improvement in the quality of life of the present and future generations through the complementation of development and environmental protection activities;
(3) “Natural resources” refers to life-support systems such as the sea, coral reefs, soil, lakes, rivers, and forest as well as useful products found therein such as animals, wildlife, tress and other plants, including the aesthetic attributes of scenic sites that are not manmade.
(4) “Tribal land areas” refers to the areas comprising both land and sea that are traditionally occupied by the cultural minorities.
(5) “Environmentally critical areas Network” (ECAN) refers to terrestrial aquatic and marine areas that need special protection and conservation measures as they are ecologically fragile;
(6) “Participatory processes” means the involvement of all the key sectors of development, from the grassroots to the policy-making bodies of the National Government, in providing the values and ideas from which strategic development and environmental protection action can come about;
(7) “Conservation” refers to the wise use of natural resources that assures regeneration and replenishment for continuous benefit;
(8) “Ecology” refers to the life-sustaining interrelationships and interactions of organisms with each other and with their physical surroundings;
(9) “Commercial logging” refers to the cutting, felling or destruction of tress from old growth and residual forest for the purpose of selling or otherwise disposing of the cut or felled logs for profit;
(10) “SEP” refers to the Strategic Environmental Plan discussed in Section 4 of this Act;
(11) “ECAN” refers to the Environmentally Critical Areas Network as provided in Section 7 of this Act; and
(12) “EMES” refers to the Environmental Monitoring and Evaluation System provided in Section 13 of this Act.
CHAPTER II
STRATEGIC ENVIRONMENT PLAN: ADOPTION, PHILOSOPHY AND LEGAL EFFECTS
SEC. 4 Strategic Environmental Plan. – A comprehensive framework for the sustainable development of Palawan compatible with protecting and enhancing the natural resources and endangered environment of the province is hereby adopted. Such framework shall be known as the Strategic Environmental Plan for Palawan, hereinafter referred to as SEP, and shall serve to guide the local government of Palawan and the government agencies concerned in the formulation and implementation of plans, programs and projects affecting said province.
SEC. 5 Strategic Environmental Plan (SEP) Philosophy. – The SEP shall have as its general philosophy, the sustainable development of Palawan, which is the improvement in the quality of life of its people in the present and future generations through the use of complementary activities of development and conservation that protect life-support ecosystem and rehabilitate exploited areas to allow upcoming generations to sustain development growth. It shall have the following features:
(1) Ecological viability – The physical and biological cycles that maintain the productivity of natural ecosystems must always be kept intact.
(2) Social acceptability – The people themselves, through participatory process, should be fully committed to support sustainable development activities by fostering equity in access to resources and the benefits derived from them.
(3) Integrated approach – This allow for a holistic view of problems and issues obtaining in the environment as well as opportunities for coordination and sharing that will eventually provide the resources and political will to actually implement and sustain SEP activities.
SEC. 6 Legal effects. – The SEP shall serve as the framework to guide the government agencies concerned in the formulation and implementation of plans, programs and projects affecting the environment and natural resources of Palawan. It shall therefore be incorporated in the Regional Development Plan of Region IV as part of said plan.
SEC. 7 Environmentally Critical Areas Network (ECAN) – The SEP shall establish a graded system of protection and development control over the whole of Palawan, including its tribal lands, forest, mines, agricultural areas, settlement areas, small islands mangroves, coral reefs, seagrass beds and the surrounding sea. This shall be known as the Environmentally Critical Areas Network, hereinafter referred to as ECAN, and shall serve as the main strategy of the SEP.
The ECAN shall ensure the following,
(1) Forest conservation and protection through the imposition of a total commercial logging in all areas of maximum protection and in such other restricted use zones as the Palawan Council for Sustainable Development as hereinafter created may provide;
(2) Protection of Watersheds;
(3) Preservation of biological diversity;
(4) Protection of tribal people and the preservation of their culture;
(5) Maintenance of maximum sustainable yield;
(6) Protection of the rare and endangered species and their habitat;
(7) Provision of areas for environmental and ecological research, education and training; and
(8) Provision of areas for tourist and recreation.
SEC. 8 Main Components. – The areas covered by the ECAN hall be classified into three (3) main components;
(1) Terrestrial – the terrestrial component shall consist of the mountainous as well as ecologically important low hills and lowland areas of the whole province. It may be further subdivided into smaller management components.
(2) Coastal/marine area – this area includes the whole coastline up to the open sea. This is characterized by active fisheries and tourism activities.
(3) Tribal Ancestral lands – These are the areas traditionally occupied by the cultural communities.
SEC. 9 Terrestrial Component: Management Scheme and Zonation. – the terrestrial component may be further subdivided into smaller management components for a more efficient supervision. These management components, in turn, shall each be further subdivided into the following zones;
(1) Area of maximum protection or core zone -This zone shall be fully and strictly protected and maintained free of human disruption. Included here are all types of natural forest which include first growth forest, residual forest and edges of intact forest, areas above one thousand (1,000) meters elevation, peaks of mountains or other areas with very steep gradients, and endangered habitats and habitats of endangered and rare species. Exceptions, however, may be granted to traditional uses of tribal communities of these areas for minimal and soft impact gathering of forest species for ceremonial and medicinal purposes.
(2) Buffer zone – This area permits regulated use and may be further subdivided into three (3) sub-zones;
(a) Restricted use area. Generally surrounds the core zone and provides a protective barrier. Limited and nonconsumptive activities may be allowed in this area.
( b) Controlled use area. Encircles and provides the outer barrier to the core and restricted use area. Controlled forest extraction, like the collecting of minor forest products, and strictly controlled logging and mining may be allowed.
(c) Traditional use area. Edges of intact forests where traditional land use is already stabilized is being stabilized. Management and control shall be carried out with the other supporting programs of the SEP.
(3) Multiple/manipulative use area – This is the area where the landscape has been modified for different forms of land use such as intensive timber extraction, grazing and pastures, agriculture and infrastructures development. Control and management shall be strictly integrated with the other supporting programs of the SEP and other similar programs of the Government.
SEC. 10 Coastal/Marine Zone. – A different and simplified scheme of management zonation shall be applied to this component due to its geographical characteristics, critical nature, and patterns of resource use. Equitable access to the resource and management responsibility by the local community shall be the underlying management philosophy of this component.
(1) Core zone. – This area shall be designated free from any human activity. This includes sanctuaries for rare and endangered species, selected coral reefs, seagrass and mangrove ecosystem reserves.
(2) Multiple use zone – Aside from being development area, this zone also serves as the buffer zone where fishery, mariculture, recreation, rehabilitation of small islands and mangrove ecosystem education and research are allowed.
SEC. 11 Tribal Ancestral Lands. – These areas, traditionally occupied by cultural minorities, comprise both land and sea areas. These shall be treated in the same graded system of control and prohibition as in the others abovementioned except for strong emphasis in cultural considerations. The SEP, therefore, shall define a special kind of zonation to fulfill the material and cultural needs of the tribes using consultative processes and cultural mapping of the ancestral lands.
CHAPTER III
MANAGEMENT OF RESOURCES OUTSIDE OF THE ECOLOGICALLY CRITICAL AREAS
SEC. 12 Management of Resources Outside of the Ecologically Critical Areas. The SEP shall provide for the management of resources outside of the ECAN and shall include coastal resources, resources of the catchment areas, timber and mines, development in the lowlands, and settlement areas. It shall also provide for tourism planning.
CHAPTER IV
SUPPORT MECHANISM
SEC. 13 Environmental Monitoring and Evaluation System (EMES) – In order to monitor achievement of its goals, SEP shall establish an Environmental Monitoring and Evaluation System (EMES) which shall ensure a systematic and reliable means of data generation for the various concerns of the SEP. It shall measure changes in environmental status, identify adverse environmental trends and crisis areas, recommend solutions, assess the implementation of the SEP, and suggest measures to make the SEP more responsible to the changing needs.
SEC. 14 Environmental Research – The SEP shall provide for a system of research so that additional information for accurate planning as well as data to solve new problems in the implementation of the SEP shall be supplied. As such, the SEP’s researches shall not be confined to the physical and biological features of the environment, achieved through surveys, monitoring, resource assessments and research into processes, but shall also extend to policies and socioeconomic questions.
SEC. 15 Environmental Education and Extension – The SEP shall design an environmental information and education designed to gradually wean the people away from destructive practices and shall recommend practical ways as an alternative.
Training programs for the non-governmental organizations (NGO’s), business sector representatives and community leaders shall be organized. This may establish linkages between the NGOs, community leaders, sector representatives and the staff of line agencies development communication or public information section and at the same time, be used to plan out a comprehensive public information drive.
Simultaneously, community organizing shall be enhanced to reinforce non-formal approaches, complementing regular environment/science courses in the school.
CHAPTER V
ADMINISTRATIVE MACHINERY FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE SEP
SEC. 16 Palawan Council for Sustainable Development. – The governance, implementation and policy direction of the Strategic Environmental Plan shall be exercised by the herein created Palawan Council for Sustainable Development (PCSD), hereinafter referred to as the Council, which shall be under the Office of the President. It shall be composed of the Members of the House of the Representatives representing the province of Palawan, the Deputy Director General of the National Economic and Development Authority, the Undersecretary of Environment and Natural Resources, the Undersecretary for Special Concerns of the Department of Agriculture, the Governor of Palawan, the Mayor of Puerto Princesa City, the President of the Mayor’s League of Palawan, the President of the Provincial Chapter of the Liga ng mga Barangay, the Executive Director of the Palawan council for Sustainable Development Staff as provided in Section 20 of this Act, and such other members from the public or private sectors as the majority of the council may deem necessary.
The Council shall elect, from among its members, a Chairman and a Vice-Chairman.
SEC. 17 Quorum. – A majority of the members of the Council shall constitute a quorum for the conduct of business.
SEC. 18 Compensation. – The members of the council shall be entitled to per diems and allowances in accordance with existing laws in the performance of their duties and in carrying out of the business of the Council. The per diems shall be in the amount of Five hundred pesos (p500) for every meeting: Provided, that the per diems collected do not exceed the equivalent of per diems for four (4) meetings in a month.
SEC. 19 Powers and Functions. – In order to successfully implement the provisions of this Act, the Council is hereby vested with the following powers and functions.
(1) Formulate plans and policies as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.
(2) Coordinate with the local governments to ensure that the latter’s plans, programs and projects are aligned with the plans, programs and policies of the SEP.
(3) Call on any department, bureau, office, agency or instrumentality of the Government, and on private entities and organizations for cooperation and assistance in the performance of its functions.
(4) Arrange, negotiate for, accept donations, grants, gifts, loans, and other fundings from domestic and foreign sources to carry out the activities and purposes of the SEP.
(5) Recommend to the Congress of the Philippines such matters that may require legislation in support of the objectives of the SEP.
(6) Delegate any or all of its powers and functions to its support staff, as hereinafter provided, except those which by provisions of law cannot be delegated;
(7) Establish policies and guidelines for employment on the basis, of merit, technical competence and moral character and prescribe a compensation and staffing pattern;
(8) Adopt, amend and rescind such rules and regulations and impose penalties therefore for the effective implementation of the SEP and the other provisions of this Act.
(9) Enforce the provisions of this Act and other existing laws. Rules and regulations similar to or complementary with this Act;
(10) Perform related functions which shall promote the development, conservation, management, protection, and utilization of the natural resources of Palawan; and
(11) Perform such other powers and functions as may be necessary in carrying out its functions, powers, and the provisions of this Act.
SEC. 20 Conversion of Palawan Integrated Area Development Project Office (PIADPO) to the Palawan council for Sustainable Development Staff. – The Palawan Integrated Area Development Project Office, hereinafter referred to as PIADPO, is hereby converted to the Palawan Council for Sustainable Development Staff which shall serve as the regular professional support staff of the Council and shall provide the machinery to coordinate the policy and functions, implement programs, and organize such services as may be required by the Council in the exercise of its functions. It shall be independent of any other department or agency of the Government other than the herein provided Council. All the applicable powers, functions, personnel, complement staff, appropriations, records, equipment, property, funds, and other assets of the PIADPO, as well as all its obligations and liabilities, are hereby transferred to the Palawan Council for Sustainable Development Staff. The incumbent Director of the PIADPO shall be the Executive Director of the Palawan Council for Sustainable Development Staff and shall lead all its operations. Thereafter, the Executive Director shall be appointed by the members of the Council. He shall also be ex officio member of the Council.
CHAPTER VI
APPROPRIATION AND FINAL PROVISIONS
Sec. 21 Appropriations. – The amount necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act shall be charged to the current fiscal year appropriation of the PIADPO. Thereafter, such sums as may be necessary shall be included in the annual General Appropriations Act.
SEC. 22 – Separability Clause. – If any of the provisions of this Act shall be declared unconstitutional, the other provisions of this Act shall remain valid.
SEC. 23 Repealing Clause. – All laws; decrees, orders, rules and regulations or parts thereof contrary to or inconsistent with the provisions of this Act are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.
SEC. 24 Effectivity Clause. – This Act shall take effect upon its approval.

ECOTOURISM SITES AND FACILITIES WITH DESCRIPTION

ST. PAUL SUBTERRANEAN NATIONAL RIVER PARK
Location: Bahile
How to get there: Jeepneys bound for Bahile Wharf are stationed along the Puerto Princesa market. Bahile may also be reached by chartered vehicle. Although trips to the Underground River are irregular, pumpboats along the wharf may be hired for a day trip to the river. From here, a 2.1 kilometer trek towards the river entrance follows. Bahile is 77 kilometers away from Puerto Princesa City.
Travelling Time: Two and a half hours by land.
Description: Deep within the limestone and marble peaks of Mt. St. Paul flows the Underground River, one of Palawan’s most famous spots. Outside the river’s mouth is a beautiful lagoon with crystal clear waters that teem with fish. Running eight kilometers inland, St Paul’s Underground River is easily navigable for at least four kilometers. On board a paddle banca with outriggers, equipped with carbide or kerosene lamps, one enters a new and mystical environment exploring the pitch dark interior recesses of the cavern. Every turn and bend reveal huge stalactites merging at the water’s surface and reflecting colors from yellow to reddish brown.

HONDA BAY ISLAND
Location: Sta Lourdes, Tagburos
How to get there: Tricycles do the Puerto Princesa route daily. The Sea Lourdes Harbour in Tagburos is located about 10 km. north of the capital city. At the wharf, fishermen rent out their pumpboats for a tour of the islands. The island nearest to the wharf may be reached in 30 minutes.
Travelling Time: Two and a half hours by land.
Description: Honda Bay Islands consist of the following islands: Snake Island, Cowrie Island, Starfish Island, Meana Marina Island, Loli Island and Pandang Island. Many of the islands have shallow reefs and good beaches, characterized as gradually sloping. It is a perfect site for island hopping and other water related activities like swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving. Bat Island, on the other hand is home to more than a thousand bats. These animals can be seen hanging on the mangroves during the day. At night these creatures fly off in search of food in the mainland.

PALAWAN WILDLIFE RESCUE AND CONSERVATION CENTER/CROCODILE FARMING INSTITUTE
Location: National Road, Puerto Princessa
How to get there: From the city proper, one can take a tricycle and get off at Irawan where the crocodile farm is located.
Travelling Time: Five minutes by tricycle
Description: The Palawan Wildlife Rescue And Conservation Center or Crocodile Farm Institute aims to preserve and further research studies on crocodiles. It also intends to make good use of the raw materials derived from the crocodile skin. The farm is open Monday to Friday from 1:00-4:00PM. Admission is free.

IWAHIG PRISON AND PENAL FARM
Location: Puerto Princessa City
How to get there: From the city proper, one can take a tricycle and ask to be let off at Iwahig. It is located 16 km. south of Puerto Princesa City.
Travelling Time: 20 minutes by tricycle
Description: The colony encompasses a 37-hectare tract planted with coconuts, rice and other crops. The prison has a population of about 4,000 and many inmates live with their families in so-called rehabilitation areas. Iwahig is more like a picture of a modern farm rather than a prison. The prisoners toil their farms unguarded and are allowed to earn an income by working in the many shops which make various handicrafts, most popular of which are the hand-carved items made from mahogany wood (kamagong).

BAKER’S HILL
Location: Puerto Princesa City, Palawan
How to get there: From the city proper, one can take a tricycle and ask to be let off at Mitra’s Ranch.
Travelling Time: 30 minutes by tricycle
Description: It is like a mini wonderland park with marvelous and colorful life-size cartoon figures. It is a good place to go for an afternoon snack and leisurely walk. Since this is a small place, it’s aesy to navigate, more convenient and do-able. It’s very clean and well maintained recreational area. It has a beautiful landscape and manicured botanical garden. Among the many facilities are picnic areas, a nice little zoo and playground, which are an added bonus attraction. The best part is that all of these services are free. Connected to the park located at the entrance is the Baker’s Hill Bakeshoppe. It is said that this place started out only as a bakery and then it has expanded in many ways over the past few decades. The bakery makes delicious breads, pastries like hopia, mammon, crinkles, choco slice, choco droplets, pianono and other pasalubong products. Prices are very reasonable. Hopiang Ube costed – Php 37.00 and Hopiang Mongo costed – Php. 35.00 which are very delicious. This place is best suited for families with children. A great recreational area for the young and the young at haeart.

MITRA’S RANCH
Location: Puerto Princessa City
How to get there: From the city proper, one can take a tricycle and ask to be let off at Butterfly Farm.
Travelling Time: 15 minutes by tricycle
Description: The place has a big one-story ranch house surrounded by a wide veranda and it has a picnic area with the view of the magnificent Honda Bay. A vast place owned by the family of former Philippine Senator Ramon Mitra.