Plans hatched to preserve Surigao’s Enchanted River

BISLIG CITY – Appropriate, scientific initiatives and programs are being worked out by national government agencies and the local government to preserve and protect the alluring Enchanted River and the surrounding forest within a 150-hectarecritical habitat area in Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur.

Officials of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR 13) yesterday said the Enchanted River has been developed by the municipal government as a tourist destination.

A recent evaluation made by a team of mining engineers from the Mines and Geo Sciences Bureau, however, showed the instability of the soil on top of the caves beneath the river which is mostly composed of limestones.

In a recent multi-sectoral learning workshop on critical habitat in Hinatuan, the participants have drawn up contingency measures to preserve the rich bio- diversity in the area, part of the former forest concession area of the defunct PICOP Resources, Inc.

In an exclusive interview with the Manila Bulletin, Surigao del Sur DENR Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer Rosendo A. Asunto and Bislig City Community Environment and Natural Resources Officer Michael E. Montalban said one practical step being considered is to isolate the parking area from the public which sits on top of the caves.

The Hinatuan local government unit and DENR also recommended the ban on construction activities in the area as well as limiting of human activities. (Mike U. Crismundo)