Cebu Developer Challenges DENR's Tree Cutting Allegations
Monterrazas de Cebu has officially refuted accusations from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) claiming that more than 700 trees were cut down within their 140-hectare development project in Barangay Guadalupe, Cebu City. The developer has labeled these allegations as completely false.
In an official statement released on Friday, November 15, the development company expressed its willingness to cooperate with the DENR investigation while firmly disputing the preliminary findings that were made public earlier in the week.
Environmental Compliance and Development Permits
The company emphasized that under their Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) and approved Development Permit, they were only authorized to clear shrubs and secondary undergrowth to proceed with earthworks. They categorically denied engaging in any unauthorized tree cutting activities.
According to Monterrazas de Cebu, the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) submitted to DENR-EMB 7 clearly indicated that the area was predominantly covered with grasses, shrubs, and small plants. The assessment noted minimal or no topsoil presence, making the land unsuitable for agricultural purposes.
Addressing Flooding Concerns and Social Media Backlash
The development company also responded to viral social media posts blaming their project for severe flooding during Typhoon Tino. While acknowledging some localized flooding near the development site, Monterrazas de Cebu disputed connections to widespread provincial damage.
The company clarified that their Barangay Guadalupe location sits several kilometers away from the heavily flood-affected areas in Liloan, Mandaue, and Talisay. These regions, they noted, fall under completely different drainage basins and natural waterways.
Regarding stormwater management, Monterrazas highlighted their exceedance of DENR requirements. The agency mandated a total pond capacity of 26,701 cubic meters, but the company installed a system with 40,413 cubic meters capacity - representing a 51% improvement over required standards.
The developer remains confident that any evidence presented to support the tree cutting narrative can be easily disproven, maintaining their commitment to environmental regulations throughout the project's development phase.
