The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and concerned stakeholders have signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the protection and management of the Victoria Cave Complex and Apolinario Cave in Zamboanga City.
Partnership formalized for cave conservation
The MOA, signed last week, formalizes the partnership among DENR-Zamboanga Peninsula, the City Government of Zamboanga, concerned Barangay Local Government Units, and surface lot owners and claimants. The agreement aims to strengthen the protection, conservation, management, and sustainable development of the two cave systems.
The Victoria Cave Complex is located in Victoria village, while the Apolinario Cave is in Lapakan village. Both villages are situated on the east coast of Zamboanga City.
Key officials emphasize collaboration
DENR-Zamboanga Peninsula Executive Director Marie Angelique Go highlighted the significance of the agreement as a vital step toward strengthening collaboration among government agencies and community participation to effectively manage caves and their resources. "This agreement ensures that these natural treasures remain protected," Go said.
Under the agreement, all parties committed to implementing conservation measures, enhancing environmental awareness, supporting scientific research, and promoting responsible ecotourism activities within the cave areas.
Roles and responsibilities defined
The MOA also defines the roles and responsibilities of each stakeholder in ensuring the sustainable management of the cave systems while balancing environmental protection and community interests.
Aside from Go, other signatories include Executive Assistant Rosendo Castillo III, who represented Zamboanga City Mayor Khymer Adan Olaso; Lapakan Village Chairperson Clodualdo Cosme; Victoria Chairperson Kathryn Pandi; surface lot owners and claimants; and key DENR officials.
Commitment to environmental stewardship
The DENR-Zamboanga Peninsula said the signing of the agreement reaffirms the agency's and its partners' commitment to environmental stewardship, sustainable resource management, and community participation in conserving cave ecosystems in Zamboanga City.
