Taraw Cave
20/09/2012 04:53
Taraw Cave or Taraw Cave Complex (TCC) as it is really a complex of caves in Barangay San Rafael, Puerto Princesa is a cave trek option just within the jurisdiction of Puerto Princesa. It is also referred to as Castle Rock as it looks like a castle. From the main highway going to Roxas municipality, you can actually see the limestone cave jutting out of the horizon against the blue sky on a fine day.
Going there requires good stamina because you will need to walk a long trail and climb a steep hill to see it. It is approximately 250 meters above sea level.
The cave, therefore, is not for those who just would like to do a leisurely walk or someone who has a health problem. It is ideal for those who like outdoor adventure.
You will need a local guide to reach TCC because it is easy to lose your way. The barangay chairman is the person to contact so he can recommend a guide.
There are many trails available for trekking. You might want to take the long route to see wildlife along the way or opt the shortcut for faster access.
If you intend to visit TCC, you should bring the following things with you:
- a bright flashlight or a headlight
- your safety gear and equipment(helmet, climbing gear, and other paraphernalia)
- knapsack (a light and waterproof one is preferable especially if you visit on rainy days or simply a plastic bag where you can stash your sensitive belongings like the camera or cellphone)
- closed shoes (you might step on a snake so better wear closed shoes)
- bottled water (you will really get thirsty along the way and need lots of water)
- a GPS or compass (in case you might lose your way)
- your camera (preferably with casing or waterproof)
- extra clothing (at least one will do)
- first aid kit
- repellent against mosquitoes (you may use OFF lotion)
- binoculars
If you are fond of bats, there are 10 species found by a group of scientists from the Biological Society of Washington (Esselstyn et al., 2004). Accordingly, species of Hipposideros, Rhinolopus, Miniopterus, and Myotis were present. Well, these names are for those who would want to do scientific work.
Local historians say the cave was once a refuge of Dr. Higinio Mendoza, Sr., a local hero during the Japanese occupation of the province.
When I got there last year, I felt as if it's some kind of a home. The entrance is like a domed ceiling of a church. I wrote about it in another site and posted some pictures here.
Reference
Esselstyn, J., P. Widmann, and L. R. Heaney, 2004. The mammals of Palawan Island, Philippines. Proceedings of the Biological Society of Washington. Retrieved on September 20, 2012 from https://www.biology.mcmaster.ca/faculty/evans/jake_esselstyn/Publications/Esselstyn%20et%20al.%202004%20PBSW.pdf