Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival has publicly defended his measured response to the contentious Monterrazas de Cebu upland development project. He argues that further public statements would risk politicizing an issue already under formal investigation by national authorities.
Mayor Responds to Councilor's Questions
The mayor's clarification comes after Councilor Jun Alcover raised concerns about perceived inaction on the project. Residents and environmental groups have blamed the development for causing flooding and soil erosion in the area. Archival pointed out that the project's approval occurred before his term began, stating, "I wasn't the mayor yet when this was approved."
He detailed the city's response once environmental problems were reported. Following flood incidents connected to the site, the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) teamed up with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to launch an investigation. "That investigation was submitted to the National Government and they have already issued a resolution to file cases against the responsible parties," Archival explained.
City Awaits National Decision, Announces Moratorium
Questioning the need for additional local action, the mayor asked, "There's already a pending decision. What else are we supposed to do?" He confirmed that Cebu City will not initiate a separate probe to avoid interfering with the independent, DENR-led investigation.
Despite his reserved comments on the specific case, Archival strongly reiterated his support for a halt on new upland developments to prevent future environmental damage. "I will issue a memorandum to department heads, especially CENRO and zoning offices, to scrutinize new applications, particularly in the uplands," he announced. He clarified that while previously approved projects will be checked for compliance, the moratorium mainly focuses on stopping new applications.
Alignment on Responsible, Science-Based Growth
Archival's position finds common ground with Councilor Joel Garganera, who chairs the committee on environment. Garganera is also advocating for tighter regulations to ensure what he calls "responsible and science-based growth." The mayor concluded by affirming the city's support for development, but stressed that it must be carefully balanced with a commitment to protecting the environment.
