Republic of the Philippines 
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 
Quezon City 
EIGHTEENTH CONGRESS 
Second Regular Session 
HOUSE BILL NO. ____ 
Introduced by HON. LUIS RAYMUND “LRAY” F. VILLAFUERTE, JR. 
“AN ACT 
DECLARING BANGA CAVES IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF RAGAY, PROVINCE OF 
CAMARINES SUR AN ECOTOURISM SITE AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS 
THEREFOR” 
This measure proposes to declare the Banga Caves in the Municipality of Ragay in 
Camarines Sur as an Ecotourism Site. 
There are at least 17 caves in Banga. The term “banga” is a local name for palm tree 
(Arecaceae) that had grown largely in the area way back then and the 101 caves. 
Stories from the locals reveal that during the World War II, the caves served as one of 
the major camps of Japanese soldiers. It also speculated that soldiers used the caves 
as hiding spot from their enemies as evidenced by some tools and implements found 
therein. 
Ecotourism is about uniting conservation, communities, and sustainable travel. The 
declaration of the ecotourism site helps build environmental and cultural awareness 
and respect. It is aimed not only at conservation but also generating financial benefits 
for the local community. 
In view of the foregoing the passage of this bill is earnestly sought. 
LUIS RAYMUND “LRAY” F. VILLAFUERTE, JR. 
June 30, 2021
12:13 pm
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Republic of the Philippines 
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 
Quezon City 
EIGHTEENTH CONGRESS 
Second Regular Session 
HOUSE BILL NO. ____ 
Introduced by HON. LUIS RAYMUND “LRAY” F. VILLAFUERTE, JR. 
“AN ACT 
DECLARING BANGA CAVES IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF RAGAY, PROVINCE OF 
CAMARINES SUR AN ECOTOURISM SITE AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS 
THEREFOR” 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Short Title. – This Act shall be known as “Banga Caves Ecotourism 
Act.”  
SECTION 2. Declaration of Policy. – The 1987 Philippine Constitution mandates 
that the State shall protect and advance the right of the people to a balanced and 
healthful ecology in accord with the rhythm and harmony of nature. 
Accordingly, it is hereby declared the policy of the State to promote to promote an 
ecologically-sustainable and effective tourist industry that will enhance environmental  
preservation and support socio-economic development. 
SECTION 3. The Banga Caves Ecotourism Site. The Banga Caves in the 
Municipality of Ragay, Province of Camarines Sur is hereby declared as an 
ecotourism site. Its development shall be prioritized by the Department of Tourism 
(DOT) and shall be subject to the rules and regulations governing the development of 
ecotourism sites. 
The DOT, in coordination with the concerned local government units as well as with 
the other concerned government agencies, shall prepare a tourism development plan 
for Banga Caves which shall be incorporated in the overall National Tourism 
Development Plan (NTDP), pursuant to Republic Act No. 9593, otherwise known as 
“The Tourism Act of 2009”, and which shall also include the construction and 
maintenance of infrastructure and facilities in the area; Provided, That the 
development plan shall ensure the preservation and conservation of the scenery and 
resources of the area. 
SECTION 4. Implementing Rules and Regulations. Within sixty (60) days after the 
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effectivity of this Act, the Secretary of the DOT, in consultation with the concerned 
local government units, the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority 
(TIEZA) and other agencies, shall promulgate the necessary rules and regulations for 
the effective implementation of this Act. 
 
SECTION 5. Appropriations. The Secretary of the DOT shall include in the 
Department’s program the implementation of this Act, the funding of which shall be 
included in the Annual General Appropriations Act and internally generated funds of 
the DOT. 
 
SECTION 6. Repealing Clause. All laws, rules, regulations, proclamations, executive 
orders or parts thereof inconsistent with this Act are hereby deemed repealed or 
amended accordingly. 
 
SECTION 7. Effectivity. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its 
publication in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation. 
 
Approved,