DOST-NRCP Reveals Fragile Cave Ecosystems in Calubian, Leyte
A research program by the Department of Science and Technology–National Research Council of the Philippines (DOST-NRCP) has found that the caves of Calubian, Leyte host fragile ecosystems of significant scientific, cultural, and recreational value, underscoring the need for regulated ecotourism and biodiversity protection. The results were presented to local government officials and stakeholders during a policy forum held at the Calubian Sports Complex on August 29, 2025.
The policy research program, “Caves Assessment for Sustainable Ecotourism and Biodiversity Conservation in Calubian, Leyte,” was funded by DOST-NRCP and implemented by the University of the Philippines Los Banos–Museum of Natural History (UPLB-MNH).
Dr. Anna Pauline O. De Guia, Regular Member of the NRCP Division of Biological Sciences and Program Leader, six interrelated studies offering science-based guidance for tourism planning and environmental management were implemented. Each study focused on a specific parameter, such as hydrogeology and water quality, visitor carrying capacity, floral biodiversity, faunal biodiversity, and microbial communities.
The studies revealed key findings across other parameters. The hydrogeological study found that underground aquifers are vulnerable to contamination and require regular monitoring. The carrying-capacity study reported that not all caves can sustain heavy tourist activity and recommended that sensitive sites be placed under strict protection. Floral and faunal surveys recorded endemic species and documented invasive species that may disrupt habitats. The microbial study confirmed the essential role of microorganisms in maintaining ecosystem stability and highlighted their potential for scientific and biotechnological applications.
DOST-NRCP researchers emphasized that these findings are vital in shaping a balanced approach to tourism and sustainability in Eastern Visayas.
Local officials and stakeholders expressed support for the program’s recommendations, such as enforcing regulated visitor access and designating strictly protected cave sites, safeguarding threatened species and microbial habitats, and monitoring invasive species and improving waste management to protect water resources.
Leyte 3rd District Representative Anna Victoria Veloso-Tuazon and Calubian Mayor Marciano A. Batiancela acknowledged that the assessments will guide holistic planning efforts that balance local livelihoods with ecosystem protection and long-term sustainability. They emphasized the importance of strengthening community capacity to ensure that ecotourism delivers economic benefits without compromising natural resources.
“We would like to develop a tourism industry that is anchored on our culture, our heritage, identity and our resilience,” Rep. Tuazon stated.
Concerns and queries on hazard assessments, safety protocols, invasive species management, and long-term biodiversity protection were raised during a forum that followed.
The research program is under DOST-NRCP’s Research to Policy (R2P) initiative, which supports studies that provide science-based inputs for policymaking. The Council hopes the findings will guide local government units and stakeholders in crafting evidence-based strategies to protect Calubian’s cave ecosystems while promoting sustainable ecotourism. (Rose D. Dagupen //S&T Media Services)
In photos: Calubian LGU representatives interact with researchers, raising queries on the results of the caves assessment during the open forum.
