Monterrazas de Cebu Under DENR Review
DENR – The Department of Environment and Natural Resources has launched a multistakeholder investigation into the Monterrazas de Cebu project following public concerns over its possible role in worsening flooding in Cebu during Typhoon Tino.
On November 7, the DENR announced via Facebook the formation of a Joint Inspection, Investigation, and Assessment Team, which includes technical experts from DENR Region 7, the Environmental Management Bureau, the Mines and Geosciences Bureau, the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office in Cebu, the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office in Cebu City, as well as representatives from the Cebu City Government and Barangay Guadalupe. The aim is to ensure a thorough and impartial review of the project.
The investigation will examine several key aspects, including whether the project complies with its Environmental Compliance Certificate and other environmental rules, the effectiveness of its drainage, slope protection, and water runoff systems, the safety of slopes and risks of landslides or flooding, any changes made to the natural land and nearby forest areas, and signs of soil erosion, silt buildup, or blockages in nearby streams and waterways. The developers have been asked to submit an Engineering, Geological, and Hazard Assessment, which the team will verify. The DENR also stated that any violations found will result in enforcement of the law and the application of proper penalties.
The investigation comes as engineer and former Pinoy Big Brother: Unlimited Big Winner Slater Young faces criticism online. Many netizens blamed Monterrazas de Cebu for the severe flooding in Cebu, resulting in widespread backlash. Slater had introduced the project in his vlog in August 2023, describing it as a small portion at the foot of a mountain with only 146 exclusive units.
He explained that while the project is large, it does not cover the entire mountain. He also noted that Google Earth images show no visible forest in the area prior to construction, indicating that the project did not cause deforestation.
Related Post: DPWH Confirms Slater Young’s Monterazzas Project Investigated Following Deadly Cebu Flood