Cebu Governor Reaffirms Opposition to Bantayan Island Condo Project
Cebu Governor Opposes Bantayan Island Condo Project

Cebu Governor Reaffirms Opposition to Bantayan Island Condo Project

Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro has once again voiced her firm opposition to The Stria condominium development in Santa Fe, Bantayan Island, emphasizing environmental concerns and illegal construction activities. On Wednesday, March 11, 2026, Baricuatro reiterated the Provincial Government's stance to halt the project while awaiting a final ruling from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

Governor's Unwavering Stance

When questioned about the Office of the Governor's position, Baricuatro responded with a definitive "Absolutely," confirming their commitment to stopping the project's operations. The Province had previously submitted a comprehensive report to the DENR Central Office in December 2025, alleging that The Stria was constructed illegally. "We have already submitted the report and the pertinent documents to the DENR Central Office," she stated, adding, "We are awaiting their response." The report included evidence suggesting that construction at the site continues despite ongoing legal challenges.

Environmental and Legal Violations

The Stria project is situated along the shores of Santa Fe in Bantayan Island, an area designated as a protected zone under Presidential Proclamation 2151, issued on December 29, 1981. Although its environmental compliance certificate permits only three floors, the building has reportedly been built up to 11 floors, exceeding the allowed height. Authorities have cited multiple alleged violations, including surpassing the 10-meter building height limit and potential encroachment into the 20-meter coastal easement.

Timeline of Escalating Concerns

Concerns over The Stria have been mounting for nearly two years, with a series of government notices and orders issued due to alleged environmental violations:

  • On July 31, 2024, the DENR–Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (Cenro) issued its first notice of violation to the developer over environmental compliance issues.
  • After the developer allegedly failed to address these concerns, a second notice of violation was released on September 17, 2024.
  • A third notice followed on December 18, 2024, as authorities reported unresolved issues.
  • Despite repeated warnings, construction reportedly persisted, leading Cenro to order a halt to the project on May 14, 2025.
  • The situation escalated further on August 18, 2025, when both the DENR Central Office and Governor Baricuatro ordered work to stop, citing the alleged violations.

In response, the DENR suspended the project's environmental compliance certificate, although the duration of this suspension was not specified. The Provincial Government's December 2025 report to the DENR Central Office detailed these alleged illegal activities, underscoring the ongoing environmental and legal battles surrounding The Stria development.