DENR Suspends Environmental Compliance Certificate in Cebu
MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has ordered the suspension of the Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) for a construction project in Santa Fe, Cebu. This action follows alleged breaches of environmental regulations tied to the project.
The DENR announced on Monday that the ECC of Fifth Avenue Property Development Corporation for “The Stria Santa Fe Project” was suspended on August 15. This suspension halts all ongoing construction activities due to violations of Presidential Decree 1586 and its implementing rules and regulations. The agency emphasized the importance of adhering to the environmental compliance certificate to protect the surrounding environment.
Project Exceeds Approved Building Limit
Authorities from the DENR Central Visayas regional office and the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) discovered that the construction had already reached four floors, surpassing the approved maximum of three floors. This is a clear breach of the Environmental Compliance Certificate’s terms.
The Protected Area Management Board had only authorized construction up to a maximum building height of 10 meters. This limit was put in place to safeguard the area’s ecosystem and prevent environmental degradation.
“Any development that goes beyond the allowable limits not only breaches regulatory requirements but also risks causing damage to the environment,” said DENR Central Visayas Regional Executive Director Paquito Melicor, highlighting the environmental risks involved.
Previous Violations and Enforcement Actions
The EMB confirmed that the developer was previously fined ₱270,000 for violations detected by the DENR’s Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) in Cebu City. Additionally, CENRO issued three separate notices of violation on July 31, September 17, and December 18, 2024.
On May 14, CENRO Cebu City escalated enforcement by ordering an immediate halt to all construction activities after the developer failed to respond to the earlier notices of violation.
Commitment to Environmental Law Enforcement
The DENR assures the public that it will continue to strictly enforce environmental laws in Cebu. Officials remain vigilant to ensure that all development projects comply fully with environmental standards to protect natural resources and community welfare.
Community members expressed hope that these actions will set a precedent for responsible development and environmental stewardship in the region.
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