Developers behind the Monterrazas de Cebu project are facing serious questions about their use of environmental planners who allegedly lack proper licensing. The controversy emerged during an interview with environmental planner Gus Agosto on Sunday, November 16, 2025.
Legal Requirements Under Environmental Planning Act
According to Agosto, the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), hazard studies, and planning documents submitted to regulators were neither prepared nor signed by licensed environmental planners as required by Republic Act 10587, also known as the Environmental Planning Act of 2013.
"This is a serious issue," stated Agosto during the interview. "RA 10587 makes it clear: only licensed environmental planners are allowed to prepare and sign environmental planning work such as EIAs, hydrologic studies, hazard assessments, and land-use plans." He emphasized that if unqualified individuals prepared these critical documents, it constitutes a direct violation of Philippine law.
Potential Consequences and Legal Ramifications
Under RA 10587, practicing environmental planning without a valid license is illegal and carries both administrative and criminal penalties. Government agencies that accept technical documents prepared by unqualified personnel may also face scrutiny for non-compliance with legal requirements.
Agosto further explained that inadequate environmental assessments could contribute to drainage failures and slope movements, which have been reportedly linked to flooding in adjacent communities. The potential connection between improper documentation and real-world environmental hazards adds urgency to the allegations.
Broader Implications for Development Projects
The case raises important questions about compliance with environmental regulations across Philippine development projects. Proper environmental planning is crucial not only for legal compliance but also for community safety and environmental protection.
As the investigation continues, stakeholders are watching closely to see how regulatory authorities will address these allegations and what measures will be taken to ensure future compliance with environmental planning standards.
