Republic of the Philippines 
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 
Quezon City 
NINETEENTH CONGRESS 
First Regular Session 
HOUSE BILL NO. ____ 
Introduced by HON. LUIS RAYMUND “LRAY” F. VILLAFUERTE, JR.,  
HON. MIGUEL LUIS R. VILLAFUERTE, HON. TSUYOSHI ANTHONY G. HORIBATA 
AND HON. NICOLAS ENCISO VIII 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
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. 
MIGUEL LUIS R. VILLAFUERTE  
TSUYOSHI ANTHONY G. HORIBATA 
NICOLAS ENCISO VIII 
July 22, 2022
4:34 pm
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Republic of the Philippines 
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 
Quezon City 
NINETEENTH CONGRESS 
First Regular Session 
HOUSE BILL NO. ____ 
Introduced by HON. LUIS RAYMUND “LRAY” F. VILLAFUERTE, JR.,  
HON. MIGUEL LUIS R. VILLAFUERTE, HON. TSUYOSHI ANTHONY G. HORIBATA 
AND HON. NICOLAS ENCISO VIII 
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. 
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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 
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,