Talisay council denies subdivision development

CEBU, Philippines - The proposed subdivision project of the Kenrich Development Corporation in Sitio Cabutoy, Barangay Pooc has been denied by the Talisay City Council Committee on Housing and Urban Development.

City Councilor Doroteo Emit, in his two-page committee report, said the area is not suitable for the construction of a subdivision and any other structure as it is contrary to its being a natural monument.

Under Section 3 of the City Ordinance No. 2009-12-2, the area is declared as one of the Heritage Zones, Monuments and Sites, which are recommended for conservation.

Also, Emit pointed out that Barangay Pooc Resolution No. 06-049-A, series of 2011, provides that the area in Sitio Cabutoy is a naturally irrigated riceland and while Cabutoy hosts Dorica and Hernani springs.

"The site proposed for the construction of a subdivision is very well identified, declared, operated and maintained as an irrigated agricultural land by virtue of a barangay resolution and a city ordinance," Emit said.

Under RA 4846 and Administrative Order No. 20 of the Department of Agriculture -National Irrigation Administration, the use of natural monuments other than for its declared purpose, is prohibited.

"Any deviation is deemed illegal and punishable by law. The area is not suitable for the construction of a subdivision and any other structure that is contrary to its being a natural monument, and should therefore just be left alone," he added.

Emit, however, acknowledged that decent housing may be a basic need that should be afforded to the people but the safety and appropriateness of the location should never be compromised.

The report rendered by the council after the National Irrigation Administration-7 of the Department of Agriculture referred to the city on the petition of Sitio Cabutoy Residents Association to develop a residential subdivision in the area.

Emit's report was supported by Councilors Socrates Fernandez, Edward Alesna, Antonio Bacaltos and Dennis Basillote. (FREEMAN)