DENR conducts survey on Kawasan

CEBU, Philippines - A five-member team from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) 7 is set to conduct a ground verification and relocation survey in Matutinao river and Kawasan falls in Badian, Cebu from May 21 to 25.

The survey is  in line with the current issue regarding the temporary closure ordered by Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia to make way for the demolition of the illegal structures which spoil the natural beauty of Kawasan falls.

The team is composed of  four technical personnel from the Land Management Services - Marcos Cagatcagat, Renato Padron, Publio Molde, and Emmanuel Quano. It will also have as members Mardionne de los Reyes of the Protected Area and Wildlife Division and Wilfredo Calledo of the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO).

DENR-7 Regional Executive Director Maximo O. Dichoso approved the regional special order number (RSO) 241, series of 2012 on May 7 creating a regional team to conduct ground verification and relocation survey of Lot 3071, and Public Land Survey 657-D in Badian, Cebu.

The said team is headed by Chamberlain Babiera of the Protected Area, Wildlife and Coastal Zone Management Services (PAWCZMS).

Kawasan Falls has three levels and a large pool where visitors can swim, ride rafts or relax in outdoor kiosks.

As stated in the RSO, the team shall immediately coordinate with the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) Cebu and CENRO Argao as well as the Provincial Government of Cebu for the conduct of the activity.

Dichoso said that he already gave an instruction for the team to submit its report and recommendations at the earliest possible time, giving emphasis on the structures and improvements found on the subject lot including its nature and status, claims or conflict in the area, and other pieces of information. (FREEMAN)