01/12/2025
Taraw Cave – Aramaywan, Quezon, Palawan
On the day of our trip, we set off from the PSU campus at exactly 8:45 AM, joined by fellow Global Marketing and Travel Writing & Photography students. Led by our energetic and young-at-heart instructor, Ma’am Hazel Carumba, the adventure officially began. Excitement filled the atmosphere as we traveled, and after a short ride, we finally arrived in Aramaywan, Quezon, Palawan at around 9:00 AM. Before entering the cave, we took some time to prepare ourselves mentally and physically for the trek ahead.
Our journey to reach the entrance of Taraw Cave took approximately one hour and thirty minutes on foot. The trail was a bit challenging, filled with uneven surfaces, muddy paths, and scattered rocks, but each step made us more eager to discover what awaited us deep within the cave system.
The moment we reached Taraw Cave, it felt like stepping into a place untouched by time. The towering limestone formations that guarded the entrance immediately captured our attention. From the outside alone, the cave already held a sense of mystery, silently inviting us to explore the stories and wonders hidden within its dark chambers.
As soon as we entered, the temperature dropped instantly. The cool air wrapped around us like a quiet welcome, contrasting the warmth outside. Our footsteps echoed softly on the rocky ground, creating a rhythm that matched the steady dripping of water from the ceiling. The cave walls were adorned with impressive stalactites and stalagmites, natural masterpieces shaped by thousands to millions of years of slow geological formation. The way the light reflected off the mineral-rich surfaces made everything seem magical, like glimmers of hidden jewels scattered across the cave.
Each chamber felt different from the previous one. Some were narrow, forcing us to crouch or slide through tight spaces, while others opened into grand halls wide enough to make us pause in admiration. We balanced carefully over rocks, maneuvered through slippery surfaces, and supported one another during difficult parts of the trek. Despite the physical effort, every challenge brought a rewarding view, another remarkable formation, another moment of awe.
What captivated me most was the atmosphere of tranquility. Inside, everything felt still, as though the cave itself was holding history within its walls. Being there reminded us how small we are compared to the incredible forces of nature. It also taught us patience, respect, and mindfulness. We learned that caves like Taraw are more than just tourist attractions, they are ancient storytellers, preserving the natural and cultural heritage of Palawan.
As students, the experience was more than just sightseeing. It became a profound moment of learning. We gained a deeper appreciation for environmental protection and responsible tourism. Caves are fragile ecosystems, and even the slightest disturbance can cause irreversible damage. This reminded us that preserving natural wonders like Taraw Cave is not only the responsibility of the authorities, but also of everyone who visits.
Our trip to Taraw Cave is something I will never forget. It strengthened our connection with nature, challenged our physical abilities, and opened our eyes to the hidden beauty that our province holds. Truly, Quezon, Palawan is blessed with stunning rock formations and rich natural treasures. It is our duty to protect these extraordinary places so future generations can explore them, learn from them, and be proud of our local heritage, just as we were that day.
Travel Writing and Photography
Quennie D. Villar,
Kristel Ann P. Villar,
Gilbert Jabagat,
Gerald Barrun,
John Raicen Tabuyan
BS Tourism Management 4th year
Global Marketing
Ronel Ditan Barruga
Hendrian Bacocanag
Rowellady Ann Cabuguas
Regine Rimonda
Myca Abapo
Mea Pearl Arguelles
Glaiza Robles
BS Business Administration major in Marketing Management 4th year
