EMB-7: Dam projects need environmental screening, ECC permit

CEBU, Philippines — The Environmental Management Bureau in Central Visayas (EMB-7) has reminded the Cebu City Council that proposed dams and water-impounding facilities must undergo environmental screening and secure the necessary permits before construction.

The reminder came in response to a City Council resolution supporting the proposed construction of dams and water-impounding facilities along Cebu’s major river systems.

The resolution was passed amid growing concerns over Metro Cebu’s long-term water security and persistent flooding during heavy rains.

While recognizing the importance of water-resource development and flood-mitigation initiatives, the EMB-7 stressed that proposed projects must comply with the Philippine Environmental Impact Statement System under Presidential Decree No. 1586 and related regulations.

"Accordingly, the proposed dam and water-impounding projects identified in the resolution should undergo project-specific coverage screening and categorization by the EMB prior to implementation," the agency said.

It added that project proponents must secure the appropriate Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) before starting projects that meet the applicable environmental thresholds.

The EMB cited existing guidelines covering dams intended for irrigation, flood control, water supply and hydropower generation.

Under these rules, projects classified as Environmentally Critical Projects or those exceeding prescribed reservoir or storage-capacity thresholds must undergo a more comprehensive environmental review through the preparation of an Environmental Impact Statement.

Smaller projects may also be required to submit environmental assessment documents, depending on their size and classification.

The EMB emphasized that projects would be evaluated as entire developments rather than as individual components, meaning associated facilities and structures would also be considered during screening and assessment.

Projects located in Environmentally Critical Areas may likewise be subject to environmental impact assessment requirements, even if they do not meet the prescribed size thresholds.

The city council resolution forms part of broader efforts to strengthen Metro Cebu’s water supply infrastructure. Local officials have repeatedly raised concerns over the region’s growing water demand, particularly during prolonged dry spells, while intense rainfall continues to cause flooding in several communities.

Proponents have cited dams and water-impounding facilities along major river systems as potential long-term solutions to store water during the rainy season, augment supply during droughts and mitigate downstream flooding.

However, environmental groups and regulators have stressed the need for rigorous environmental assessments of large-scale water infrastructure projects because of their potential effects on ecosystems, river systems and surrounding communities.

EMB-7 Regional Director John Edward Ang said the agency remains committed to supporting sustainable water-resource development while ensuring compliance with environmental laws, regulations and safeguards.-- FPL (CEBU NEWS)