DENR halts Oslob tree cutting

CEBU, Philippines — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources in Central Visayas (DENR-7) has ordered the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) in Argao to issue a cease and desist order (CDO) on tree-cutting activities at the Oslob Plaza after finding that the project failed to comply with the conditions of its Special Tree Cutting Permit (STCP).

DENR-7 is also investigating reports that tree-cutting activities continued despite the violations. The agency said it would release the results of its investigation today.

In a statement issued on July 18, DENR-7 acknowledged public concern over the planned cutting of trees at the Oslob Plaza, where the municipal government is constructing a Sports and Cultural Complex.

The agency said CENRO Argao issued a Special Tree Cutting Permit to the Oslob local government on June 23, 2026, authorizing the cutting of 10 identified trees, subject to specific terms and conditions and compliance with existing environmental laws, rules and regulations.

An inspection by DENR-7 found that the required project signboard had been installed. However, only two mahogany trees had been heavily affected, while the remaining trees covered by the permit were still standing.

Inspectors also found that the tree-cutting activities proceeded without prior coordination and notification to CENRO Argao, a requirement under the permit.

Because of the non-compliance, DENR-7 said CENRO Argao will issue a cease and desist order to stop all tree-cutting and related activities until the permit holder fully complies with the conditions of the Special Tree Cutting Permit and all applicable environmental laws, rules and regulations.

The agency assured the public that it will continue monitoring the project and take appropriate regulatory action to protect the environment while ensuring that development projects comply with environmental safeguards.

The proposed Sports and Cultural Complex has drawn public attention following concerns over the planned removal of trees within the historic Oslob Plaza.

The Municipality of Oslob broke ground for the project on July 8, 2026. The facility is intended to serve as a venue for sports competitions, cultural activities and community events.

The groundbreaking ceremony was led by Oslob Mayor Ronald Guaren and attended by Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro, Cebu Second District Rep. Edsel Galeos, Provincial Board Members Raymond Calderon and Dr. Stanley Caminero, and other local officials.

According to the Oslob local government, the Sports and Cultural Center is envisioned as a state-of-the-art facility that will become the municipality's primary venue for community gatherings, athletic competitions and cultural celebrations.

The project also aims to strengthen community engagement while providing infrastructure that will benefit future generations.

During the groundbreaking ceremony, Baricuatro commended the Oslob local government for pursuing the project and reaffirmed the provincial government's support for its implementation.

The governor described the project as an important step in the municipality's continued development and said the Capitol remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote local growth. (CEBU NEWS)