Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City, Metro Manila
EIGHTEENTH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

House BILL No. 6075

Introduced by Representative SHAREE ANN T. TAN

EXPLANATORY NOTE

This bill seeks to declare the Sohoton Caves and Natural Bridge as an ecotourism site in
the Municipality of Basey, Province of Samar.

‘The Sohoton Caves and Natural Bridge is one of the most sought tourist destinations in the
Province of Samar and is internationally known for its natural beauty featuring cathedral-shaped
caves, unique limestone formations, subterranean rivers, lush green forest and a natural stone
bridge.

‘The most popular feature of Sohoton Caves and Natural Bridge is the natural stone bridge
which connects two mountains. Several caves are also found in the area and the largest of which
is the Panhulugan Cave. Unique and interesting limestone formations can be seen inside the caves
that attract tourists and locals alike.

The declaration of Sohoton Caves and Natural Bridge as an ecotourism site will not only
result to the development and improvement of the tourist site but will likewise help in the
furtherance of socio-economic development in the local communities as well as in the whole
country.

‘As embodied in the 1987 Philippine Constitution, 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. In light of all this, the immediate passage of this bill is earnestly sought.

SHARKE ANN T. TAN
epresentative
Second District, Samar


Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City, Metro Manila
EIGHTEENTH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

House BILLNo, 075

~ Introduced by Representative SHAREE ANN T. TAN

“AN ACT
DECLARING SOHOTON CAVES AND NATURAL BRIDGE IN THE MUNICIPALITY
OF BASEY, PROVINCE OF SAMAR 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 “Sohoton Caves and Natural Bridge
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 an ecologically-
sustainable and effective tourist industry that will enhance environmental preservation and support
socio-economic development.

SECTION 3. The Sohoton Caves and Natural Bridge Ecotourism Site. The Sohoton Caves and
Natural Bridge in the Municipality of Basey, Province of Samar 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 concemed government agencies, shall prepare a tourism development plan for Sohoton
Caves and Natural Bridge 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,