Kawasan Falls Takes a Break as Canyoneering Activities Come to a Halt

Cebu Governor Gwen Garcia has ordered a temporary closure of the Kawasan Falls and the suspension of all activities in the area until “hazardous” structures are removed and new guidelines are in place.

According to Garcia, the Capitol is taking over the management and clearing operations of the famous waterfalls and the adjoining Matutinao River.

Last week, Garcia issued an Executive Order shutting down canyoneering activities in the river and Kawasan Falls, which are considered one of the world’s best waterfalls visited by both foreign and local tourists.

Kawasan Falls flows through Matutinao River in Badian, which is about a three-hour drive southwest of Cebu City.

“That is a disaster waiting to happen. And I don’t want a black mark on Cebu’s tourism particularly Kawasan Falls which is recognized, (as) one of the most beautiful falls in the world. So rather than allow that disaster to happen, we might as well take that preventive action,” Garcia said in a video interview.

Garcia explained that there is a continued presence of ruins from structures destroyed by Typhoon Odette. There are also abandoned structures that pose a danger to tourists in the Matutinao River and at Kawasan Falls itself.

One of the structures cited is an abandoned dam whose metal rods are dangerous to those swimming in the area.

“For that reason, the Province of Cebu is temporarily taking over the clearing of the Kawasan Falls and the eventual re-presentation to the public. We will do everything that needs to be done,” Garcia added.

Garcia said that tour operators in Kawasan Falls also need to organize and come up with activity standards as well as develop a justifiable rate for tourists.

According to Garcia, some tourists do not want to pay P1,500 because they do not want to participate in canyoneering and just want to see the waterfalls.

“I hope that when we finally open it, they will say wow. Especially Cebuanos they will be very proud to be Cebuanos that we have such a jewel in this island. It is already internationally renowned that is why we really also need to put up, I mean when we really believe it is the most beautiful falls in the world, it better look beautiful without all of these eye sores,” Garcia added.

The governor also clarified that canyoneering activities in the neighboring town of Alegria will continue.

Garcia said they will assist affected tour guides and operators in Kawasan Falls while it is closed for all activities. The Capitol is still studying how much financial assistance shall be given to the affected residents.