Mainit Spring ordinance returned for refinement

CEBU, Philippines — The Cebu Provincial Board has returned to Malabuyoc town its ordinance declaring Mainit Spring in Barangay Montañeza as ecotourism zone, for amendment and corrections.

The PB committee on environmental conservation and natural resources headed by Board Member Thadeo Jovito Ouano reviewed the ordinance.

During its regular session yesterday, the PB approved the committee’s report recommending the return of Municipal Ordinance No. 48 to the municipality for incorporation of changes.

The report was co-sponsored by Board Member Sun Shimura, a committee member, in the absence of Ouano.

While the committee said in its report that it lauded the “commendable effort of the Local Government Unit of the Municipality of Malabuyoc in its continuous endeavor and initiatives to promote environmental sustainability programs,” it has concerns that need to be addressed.

“There are some questions which need to be answered before this ordinance can be approved,” the committee said.

Letter (g) of Section 8 (prohibited acts) of the ordinance prohibits the quarry and extraction of sand and gravel at the Mainit river area unless deemed necessary, with permission from the LGU.

The committee said that quarry and extraction of sand and gravel is under the jurisdiction of the Capitol, particularly the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office, and not of the LGU.

It also said that there must be a map and geographical coordinates which define all areas covered by the ecotourism zone so that structures found within its jurisdiction must be demolished.

The committee asked if the area is covered by the National Integrated Protected Areas System (NIPAS) and Forest Land Use Plan.

If ever it is under NIPAS, the committee further asked if there has been any permission granted under the said law.

“All this should be answered in order to have a better understanding of the issues to be addressed,” the committee said.

The municipal ordinance also provides for the establishment of the parameter areas for conservation of culture and natural resources and promotion of ecotourism. (FREEMAN)