History of Puerto Princesa Underground River
The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park traces its origins to March 26, 1971, when it was formally established through Proclamation No. 835 issued by the late President Ferdinand E. Marcos. At the time, the protected area was known as the St. Paul Subterranean National Park and covered 3,901 hectares of terrestrial land. The proclamation marked an important milestone in recognizing the ecological and scientific value of the underground river system and its surrounding landscapes.
However, as scientific research and environmental assessments progressed, experts later determined that the park’s original size was insufficient to fully protect the watershed of the Underground River and the rich biodiversity that depended on it. Recognizing the need for a more comprehensive conservation approach, President Joseph E. Estrada signed Proclamation No. 212 on November 16, 1999, significantly expanding the park’s area to 22,202 hectares. This expansion included the entire catchment of the Underground River as well as vital forest ecosystems essential for biodiversity conservation. At the same time, the park was officially renamed Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, firmly associating it with its geographic and cultural identity.
The park’s global significance was further highlighted in the 21st century when it officially represented the Philippines in the worldwide search for the New 7 Wonders of Nature. To rally national and international support, President Benigno S. Aquino III issued Proclamation No. 182 on June 3, 2011, declaring a national and international campaign in support of the Puerto Princesa Underground River. This initiative united Filipinos both in the country and abroad, who actively participated in the global voting process.
On November 11, 2011, the Puerto Princesa Underground River achieved international recognition when it was officially proclaimed as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. This historic recognition not only elevated the park’s status on the global stage but also reinforced the Philippines’ commitment to environmental protection, sustainable tourism, and the preservation of natural heritage for future generations.
