The National Museum of the Philippines (NMP) has announced the discovery of an
ancient burial site at the Kalagan Rock Shelter in Malinao, Garcia-Hernandez, Bohol.
The site contains coffins and human skeletons that date back to the pre-colonial
period, reports said.
The NMP team, led by Mr. Taj Vitales, Senior Museum Researcher of the
Archaeology Division, conducted a follow-up exploration and preliminary examination
of the site on November 29, 2023.
They identified at least nine individuals buried at the rock shelter, one of whom had
an artificially deformed skull, a cultural practice among the early Visayans.
The site was first reported by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts
(NCCA) on November 23, 2023, after receiving information from the local residents.
NCCA then coordinated with the Provincial Government of Bohol and the
Municipality of Garcia-Hernandez to investigate the condition of the site.
Archeologists also observed modern alterations at the rock shelter, such as graffiti
and vandalism, which could damage the archaeological materials.
Experts have recommended the local government unit (LGU) to issue a resolution
that would strengthen the protection and preservation of the site.
The team also suggested seeking assistance from the Regional Cave Committee
(RCC) for further assessment.
In a statement, NMP said the Kalagan Rock Shelter is a significant archaeological
site that could shed light on the history and culture of the early inhabitants of Bohol.
NMP has urged the public to respect and conserve the site as part of the national
heritage.