Resort recognized for environmental practices

CEBU, Philippines — Amid the government’s crackdown on environmental violators, one resort in Panglao Island, Bohol was recognized by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources for helping reduce air and water pollution.

Amarela Resort in Barangay Libaong was among the 14 awardees during the 4th Gawad Tugas last Wednesday for “pursuing good environmental practices” like solid waste segregation, composting of wastes, and water recycling through rainwater catchment.

The resort was also recognized for taking the challenge of making the environment clean by holding regular coastal cleanup, and for performing “beyond the norm.”

While some failed to comply with certain environmental standards, DENR-7 Regional Director Gilbert Gonzales, in his speech, said there are also other businessmen who are more than willing to preserve the environment.

“Hence, recognizing their noble efforts is significant,” he said.

He said the department is initiating stringent efforts to address environmental issues involving resorts and hotels not only in Central Visayas, particularly Panglao in Bohol and Mactan in Cebu (two of the priority areas), but also across the country.

He said they don’t want other tourist destinations to suffer the same fate as Boracay Island in Aklan.

DENR is currently going after establishments violating clean water and easement laws.

In Lapu-Lapu alone, more than 70 commercial establishments were found to have encroached on the easement zone.

To restore the easement area, DENR-7 is closely coordinating with the city government for the removal of the illegal structures.

The city, for its part, issued notices of violations against the establishment owners.

The owners were also directed to voluntarily tear down the illegal structures built within the easement zone.

Moreover, the 14 Gawad Tugas awardees from different sectors, including police, local government units and firms, were recognized for their contributions toward effective environmental management and development.

Twenty-five nominees were screened but only 14 made it through.

The FREEMAN, Cebu's longest running newspaper,  received three awards—Environmental Story of the Year: From mining site to tourism park, Environmental Journalist of the Year: May Miasco, Environmental Publisher of the Year—and  Special Citation for promoting environmental awareness by publishing meaningful infographics.

The criteria were (1) advancement, support, and innovations of the country’s environmental mandate, vision, goals, and policy statements; (2) dedication and demonstration of good environmental and sustainability practices beyond normal responsibilities and functions; (3) environmental leadership as a role model for others to emulate; and (4) performance on the implementation of programs within the last 12 months.

Tugas is a Visayan term for molave tree touted as one of the hardest wood. Its quality is symbolized with the firm, resilient and strong efforts of the recipients in combating environmental degradation. (FREEMAN)