Puerto Princesa Underground River Mulls Entrance Fee Hike

The park management of the Puerto Princesa Underground River (PPUR) is mulling on increasing the entrance fee to the New 7 Wonders site here.

In an interview, park superintendent Elizabeth Maclang said they are proposing to increase the entrance fee from PHP175 to PHP250 for domestic tourists, and PHP350 for foreign.

The proposal is now with the Sangguniang Panlungsod for floor discussion, she said.

Maclang said the increase was proposed since times have changed, as there is a need to upturn fund resource for the maintenance of the caves, as well as the whole park where it sits.

If the proposal is passed and approved in the Sangguniang Panlungsod, the increase will also help the park management in implementing improvements at the Sabang Wharf.

The particular improvement being eyed is the turning of the Sabang Wharf into a world-class terminal.

“Since 2008, the PPUR has been self-sustaining. We’re not dependent on the IRA (internal revenue allotment) or national funding. Whatever the PPUR is earning, it is what we’re using for operation. Right now, we’re probably the only heritage site that’s collecting such a small entrance fee rate. The increase we’re proposing is just timely,” Maclang said.

If the Sangguniang Panlungsod approves the new rates, the PPUR management assures that all travel agencies in the city will be sent notices to prevent confusion among future guests.

The PPUR is a protected area located about 80 kilometres (50 mi) north of the city center of Puerto Princesa.

The national park where it is located is in the Saint Paul Mountain Range on the western coast of the island.

It is bordered by St. Paul Bay to the north and the Babuyan River to the east. The city government of Puerto Princesa has managed the national park since 1992.

The entrance to the subterranean river is a short hike or boat ride from Sitio Sabang, Barangay Cabayugan. (PNA) JMC/CARF/RMA/EDS