Skulls and Bones of the Opdas Burial Cave in Kabayan, Benguet

The peaceful town of Kabayan, Benguet is really mystical. We’ve been to the Timbac Burial Caves, the 4 mystical lakes, and Mt. Tabayoc. We were here to see the skulls and bones of the Opdas Burial Cave. This mass burial cave is literally within someone’s backyard. I’m wondering if they ever have felt any supernatural sights and noises.

 

Getting into the Cave

Opdas mass burial cave houses hundreds of skeletal remains dated to be 500 to 1,000 years old. Here we went into the place:

 

And here’s the spooky welcome marker:

 

 

Just a few steps away, we were able to get to the cave. It wasn’t as scary at all. I whispered a little prayer before going in.

 

I also noted this info marker.

 

 

And here it reads:

This unearthed remains of the living past was carbon-dated by Tokyo University Japan, and was found out to be from five hundred to one thousand years old. Renovated by the Philippine Tourism Authority in 1991.

 

Skulls and Bones

Strong disclaimer: The photos are for educational purposes only. Photos were taken with verbal permission from the caretaker of the place. In no absolute way these photos were taken to desecrate or disrespect the place.

 

And here are the bones right in front of my eyes:

 

 

 

It was suggested that they were the casualties of smallpox outbreak brought about the Spanish colonizers. Others say they may be citizens of lower social class hence they were buried in mass burial caves.

 

Big thanks to the good caretaker for her permission. Respect.