Stressing that the channel is a favorite economic destination in the province, the Cebu Provincial Board is calling on two government agencies to strictly monitor the controversial oil exploration in Tañon Strait.
The board recently passed a resolution calling for a tight watch of the seismic survey to protect marine species in the area.
At least two foreign firms - the Japan Petroleum Explorations Co. Ltd. and Forum Exploration Inc. - already secured clearances and permits from various government agencies for their exploration activities.
“Tañon Strait is world-famous for dolphin and whale-watching tours and many tourists trooped to the area to see these natural wonder,” said the resolution, which was sponsored by majority floor leader Board Member Victor Maambong.
Tañon Strait was declared as a protected area in 1998 by former president Joseph Estrada.
“The Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the Department of Energy must see to it that no marine life, endangered or otherwise, shall be harmed or destroyed as a result of the exploration activities conducted in the area,” the resolution said.
“We need to protect and preserve our rich marine heritage not only for our enjoyment and benefit but for all generations to come,” it added.
The other day, DOE Secretary Angelo Reyes confirmed that the oil exploration will start on November 15. Some environmentalists and cause-oriented groups already expressed concerns over the impending activity.
Businessman Felix Taguiam of the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry asked the energy secretary on how the department is going to protect the marine species in the area.
Reyes explained that they will be forming a multi-sectoral team to strictly monitor the exploration activities.
Meanwhile, Pinamungajan Mayor Geraldine Yapha and Aloguinsan Mayor Cynthia Moreno and Vice Mayor Caesar Augustus Moreno favor the oil exploration activity since they believe it would generate more jobs, taxes and business ventures. – Gerome M. Dalipe/LPM