One of the best caves that Bukidnon
can be proud of is Sumalsag cave.It is known for being the longest cave
in the northern part of Bukidnon. It is approximately 1,039 meters long and one of the five caves that can be found in Palaopao Range. I
remembered one time that the Philippine Caving Congress was held here, that was
4 or 5 years ago.
Sumalsag cave is located in
Barangay Vista Villa in Sumilao, Bukidnon. One of the access road is through
Dalirig, Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon. I have been on this cave several times since
college. The first time I got here was when I was invited by my cousin together
with her group of friends. I was so amazed. And I couldn’t get enough that I
keep coming back.
Part of the area, especially on the entry
point, was a property owned by the Suratos Family, retired doctors who already
resided there. They took the responsibility to welcome the visitors and also
helps recommend and negotiate to find for guide(s). The family also coordinated
with the local government for the maintenance and protection of the cave. In
case of emergencies, they are also responsible for organizing for a search and
rescue.
I invited some friends who years
before have longing to go there but never find the time to. Luckily this time
we were able to push through. I have been through this cave several times
before so I have to include my pictures from previous till this recent.
When I came here about three years ago this signpost was not here and
it’s good to have it now to let the visitors know the information and some
important reminders upon entering the cave.
 |
| The information board approaching the entrance
of the cave.
the spelunkers
From l-r :
bobot, mariel, me, daisy and vinard
|
 |
| L-R: Daniel , Ely , Jay-r and me at the mouth of the cave ( 2008). |
 |
| We ate our lunch at the entrance before going inside the cave |
The base of the cave is actually about a few meters below the surface.
Upon entering the mouth we still have to go down. Good that there is a bamboo
railing otherwise it would be hard going down because it is very slippery.
The mouth of the cave is inhabited with bats which made the surface of
the entrance slippery and smells stinky.
Just below the mouth of the cave we are greeted with slabs of rocks that
goes below much like that of the rice terraces.
Getting there:
- if you are riding a bus or a jeepney from Bukidnon or Cagayan de Oro, drop by at Dalirig Waiting shed in front of the covered court along the highway.The road going up is the access road to Kilabong. you can walk your way up or you can ride a motorized vehicle (habal-habal).
- Expenses
Habal Habal- 60-80 per person
Registration: 25 pesos
Lets get inside the cave: Sumalsag cave : the inside
No comments:
Post a Comment