Fix sewage mess, Northern Mindanao resort owners told

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Philippines — Some resorts in Northern Mindanao were found to have sewage problems, Sabdullah Abubacar, Environmental Management Bureau regional director, said yesterday.

Abubacar said they recently conducted a surprise inspection of resorts along Macajalar, Gingoog and Panguil Bays as well as in Bukidnon and Camiguin.

Abubacar said they would release the list of erring establishments next week. He said closure orders would be issued if violations are not addressed.

Marie Elaine Unchuan, Department of Tourism (DOT) regional director, reminded resort owners and operators that under the Water Code, commercial establishments should separately discharge water from toilet bowls and urinals and those from kitchen sinks, showers and faucets.

The DOT conducted a parallel inspection of resorts in Northern Mindanao with the scheduled closure of Boracay for six months for violation of environmental laws.    

The agency said resort owners and operators across the country should brace for the influx of tourists while Boracay is closed for rehabilitation.