Antique: The Antique provincial government has intensified its awareness campaign on cave protection through an exhibit that aims to reach a broader audience. The Office of the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer (OPENRO) initiated the exhibit on Monday at the New Capitol lobby to commence the Cave Month celebration.

According to Philippines News Agency, the exhibit will feature images of various caves displayed on tarpaulins at the New Capitol lobby for a week before relocating to Robinsons Place. 'The pictures of the different caves on the tarpaulin at the New Capitol lobby will be there for a week, and then it will be transferred to the Robinsons Place,' OPENRO Vivian Marfil stated in an interview on Tuesday. Additionally, pamphlets and other informational materials about the caves are available at the venue to educate the public.

The exhibit highlights significant caves, such as the Igbaclag Cave in San Remigio, Dapa Cave in Patnongon, Kagang Cave in Libertad, and Boho Cave in Valderrama. Notably, the Igbaclag Cave, which previously attracted approximately 15,000 tourists, especially during the Holy Week, is currently closed to allow its ecosystem to recover. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources discovered a collapsed boulder and mud obstructions affecting the cave's entrances during a caving activity last year.

OPENRO Vivian Marfil explained that unlike previous years where caving activities and clean-up drives were conducted around the caves, such activities are not occurring this year due to cost-cutting measures prompted by the energy emergency. However, efforts to advocate for cave protection and conservation continue, emphasizing the importance of not vandalizing, littering, removing artifacts, and respecting wildlife.

The annual Cave Month is celebrated under Provincial Ordinance Number 2021-256, which endorses the National Cave and Cave Resources Management and Protection Act.