Even though the Monterrazas de Cebu development project has been granted clearance by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Mayor Nestor Archival of Cebu City has issued a stern warning to the developer. He emphasized that they will still be held accountable if any violations of local ordinances are discovered during ongoing monitoring efforts.
Respecting National Decisions While Upholding Local Authority
Mayor Archival stated that the Cebu City Government will respect the decision made by the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) 7, as it is the primary agency tasked with assessing compliance with environmental regulations. "The DENR is the largest agency overseeing this, so for me, they have already made that decision. We will just follow it," the mayor explained.
However, he clarified that this does not mean the city will cease its vigilance. The local government will continue to monitor the project closely to ensure it adheres to all municipal laws and standards.
Monitoring and Enforcement of Local Ordinances
The city will conduct thorough inspections to determine if the company is fulfilling its obligations under local ordinances. Should any infractions be identified, the developer will be notified and subjected to disciplinary actions in accordance with the law.
Archival reminded the developer that while private companies contribute significantly to the economy, they must still operate within the legal frameworks set by both local and national governments. This dual compliance is crucial for maintaining public trust and environmental integrity.
Addressing Flooding Concerns and Public Safety
Regarding allegations that the Monterrazas project has caused flooding in lower areas of the city, Mayor Archival acknowledged that this remains a persistent concern among residents. However, based on findings from the EMB, flooding cannot be attributed to a single cause and is heavily influenced by extreme rainfall events.
"There is a notion that the developer caused the flooding in the lower areas, but the DENR said that is not the sole reason. One of the reasons is the intense rainfall," the mayor added, highlighting the complex nature of urban flooding issues.
To ensure public safety, Archival assured that the city will implement all recommendations from the Cebu City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CCENRO) and the EMB. This collaborative approach aims to mitigate risks and enhance environmental safeguards throughout the construction phase.
Background on the Project's Status
The EMB 7 had previously lifted a stoppage order against the Monterrazas de Cebu project after the developer demonstrated compliance with environmental requirements. This decision allows construction to proceed, but under the condition of continuous monitoring by both national and local authorities to prevent future violations and address community concerns effectively.
