The Hinatuan Enchanted River(Hinatuan Sacred River) is a deep spring river on the island of Mindanao in the Philippines. It flows into the Philippine Sea and the Pacific Ocean at Barangay Talisay, Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur. It is found between the boundaries of the Barangays of Talisay and Cambatong.
Hinatuan Bay, which is the habitat of various species of turtles, is located at its mouth. Its mouth also offers a safe anchorage against storms and typhoons.
The major exploration started by Dr. Alfonso Amores with team members Bernil Gastardo and Emgee Guillermo entered the cave in February 2010. The major exploration led to the discovery of a hidden cave opening at 30 meters (98 ft) depth. Succeeding expeditions have been made that led to the discovery of the underwater cave's chamber. During its sixth expedition on June 17, 2014, Dr. Amores died after failing to exit the narrow entrance to the cave due to a cardiac arrest at 40 meters (130 ft) depth inside the narrow tunnel to the Mayor's Chamber of the cave in the Hinatuan Enchanted River.
Since 2017, the local government of Hinatuan has prohibited tourists from swimming in the main pool due to preservation and maintenance. However, they have designated a swimming area for tourists near the center of the lagoon which is 10 meters (33 ft) away from the main pool. The daily fish feeding schedule was also changed from 12 noon to 3 in the afternoon.
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Philippines