DENR-Bohol confirms nesting of a Green Sea Turtle fronting a resort in Panglao

PANGLAO, Bohol-- The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR-7) in Bohol called on the public and the owners of a resort in Panglao, Bohol to help adequately protect the nesting site of a Green Sea Turtle situated along the shoreline fronting Henann Resort in Tawala, Panglao, Bohol, the stretch of coast leading to Amorita Resort is well known for its Green Sea Turtle Nesting. 

“This nesting event is a positive indication that our coastal ecosystems in Bohol continue to provide support to marine biodiversity.  We're asking everyone, residents, visitors and coastal stakeholders – to help us keep this nest safe until the hatchlings make it to the sea,” said PENR Officer Wilson Henson, reminding everyone of the shared duty to protect these fragile habitats.

Green sea turtles are one of the world’s most iconic marine species and play a vital role in maintaining healthy seagrass beds and marine ecosystems. However, they are currently listed as Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List.

Habitat loss, coastal development, pollution, illegal wildlife trade and climate change all threaten their populations. Thus, each successful nesting event is an important contribution to the survival of the species, Henson said.

According to Henson, local coordination channels reported first the citing of the turtle nest that was immediately confirmed by DENR-Panglao Island Protected Seascape (PIPS), the Panglao Island Restoration and Rehabilitation Program (PIRRP), and the Philippine Coast Guard.

The nesting site lies within a known sea turtle nesting corridor along the coastal stretch going towards Libaong, highlighting the ecological importance of Panglao’s beaches as vital habitats for marine wildlife, the team added.

After confirmation, DENR Bohol responders immediately cordoned the area and established protective measures including temporary cover to prevent disturbance.  This will be replaced by a more suitable enclosure to ensure the nest is adequately protected. The management of the resort has also been advised to cut down on artificial lighting in the vicinity as too much lighting can disorient hatchlings and disturb nesting female sea turtles, Henson said.

“Every wildlife that builds a nest is a sign of hope, and also a call to action. Saving sea turtles is not only the government’s work but communities and partners working together.  With continued protection and good coastal management, we can give these species a fighting chance to survive and thrive,” DENR7 Regional Executive Director Laudemir Salac pointed out the need to work together to protect wildlife.

Henson bared that DENR and partner agencies continue to conduct regular monitoring. The eggs are believed to hatch in approximately 45 to 70 days, and heightened protection and monitoring will be put in place to ensure the safe emergence of the hatchlings.

Residents, tourists and stakeholders are urged to help protect this nesting site, and other similar sites, by not disturbing or coming into contact with the nesting area; not using flash photography and bright lights near the nesting site; disposing of waste properly to avoid marine pollution, and reporting any sightings of wildlife or concerns to local authorities.

“It's a good reminder of the fact that our coastal ecosystems are still alive and can renew themselves when they are protected.  With collective vigilance and responsible stewardship, we can ensure that these remarkable natural events continue to be witnessed by future generations,” Salac added. (Photos: DENR7 & Google Images)

 

Over 4,000 people join Angels Walk for Autism in Cebu

CEBU CITY— More than 4,000 Cebuanos joined this year’s Angels Walk for Autism nationwide today, April 26 at the SM Seaside, South Road Properties, Cebu City, simultaneous with other Angels’ Walks in Metro Manila, Mall of Asia Arena, and other major cities in the Philippines to move beyond awareness toward concrete inclusion. 

Led by the Autism Society Philippines (ASP) in partnership with SM Cares, the initiative highlights a growing national call for the urgent passage of the landmark National Autism Care, Support, and Inclusion Bill. 

Cebuano advocates are pushing for stronger policies that ensure access to services, coordinated support, and lifelong opportunities for Filipinos on the autism spectrum.

The walk features performances and talents highlighting the contributions of the autism community and its allies, as well as call for systemic inclusion through policy, partnerships, and support for Filipinos on the spectrum.

ASP believes that systemic inclusion begins with policy. Hence it advocates for the National Autism Care, Support, and Inclusion Bill which institutionalizes access to services, coordinated support, and lifelong inclusion for Filipinos on the autism spectrum.

On March 9, 2026, the Philippine Senate unanimously approved the National Autism Care, Support, and Inclusion Act (Senate Bill No. 1822) on third reading with a vote of 20 – 0. It has been transmitted to the House of Representatives for counterpart action.

According to ASP, “inclusion must translate into real opportunities - through inclusive education systems, skills development, and workplaces that adopt accessible and equitable hiring practices via strategic partnerships with the public and private sector.

Furthermore, it submits that “strong families ensure strong futures – but they need to be sustained with support through accessible services, community networks, and policies that ease the realities of caregiving. Therefore, compassionate, accessible human support systems must be established to empower Filipinos on the autism spectrum to achieve independence and make meaningful contributions.”

Autism Society Philippines (ASP) is a national, non-profit organization that works towards an environment that empowers persons in the autism spectrum to become the best of their potential -- self-reliant, independent, productive and socially accepted members of Philippine society. 

From a core of 11 mothers in 1989, it has grown to 16,000 members spread across 106 chapters around the country today, aiming to establish institutional mechanisms to support neuro-diverse persons and their families.

The society is the prime mover of autism advocacy in the Philippines - a proponent of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which articulates basic principles of equality. It persuades leaders in the government and private sectors to include persons within the autism spectrum whenever they engineer laws, policies, and procedures. (Photos: MBCNewman) 

UC offers int’l internship, high-paying careers for its tourism students in Taiwan

CEBU CITY – The University of Cebu (UC) has finalized its international internship program in partnership with Dreamark TW, an organization that connects schools and partner hotels for tourism students to train in Taiwan’s hospitality industry, offering not only global exposure but also a promise of competitive earnings and long-term employment opportunities.

UC chairman Atty. Augusto Go told Manila Standard that the initiative builds on the university’s long-standing efforts to bring students beyond local training.   With 300 initial slots set for rollout, the program gives hope to UC’s around 800 graduating students in hospitality and tourism-related courses, some of whom may soon find themselves working in luxury hotels just a few hours away from home,

“This is not the first time we’ve sent students abroad,” Go said, citing previous programs in Europe, the United States, and Southeast Asia. “But Taiwan is even more practical. It is only two to three hours away, and parents can easily visit,” he noted.

That proximity makes overseas training more accessible, not just financially but emotionally, especially for families who want to stay connected while their children gain international experience, Go added.

                                      UC, Dreamark TW internship program

According to Dreamark TW legal counsel, Christopher San Pedro, the partnership allows students to undergo on-the-job training (OJT) in Taiwan for six months to one year, placing them in real-world hospitality environments, from front office operations to food and beverage services, in established hotels across key tourism destinations.

For students currently enrolled in UC’s TESDA-sponsored diploma programs, the opportunity is even more compelling: a direct pathway from free education to international experience, even a potentially stable, well-paying career, Go said.

San Pedro bared that more than the travel and exposure, what would excite many students is the earning potential. Participants in the program may receive a monthly allowance of around NT$29,500, equivalent to at least ₱50,000.

San Pedro added, about NT$5,000 will be deducted for accommodation. Some partner hotels may also provide meals and overtime pay, further increasing take-home income.  For many students, especially those from modest backgrounds, this transforms the internship from a requirement into a life-changing opportunity.

“Filipino students are highly regarded.  They are proficient in English and naturally service-oriented, which are qualities that hotels value. We connect students and schools with partner hotels to provide quality international internships that are now more accessible,” San Pedro said.

San Pedro noted that interns who perform well have a strong chance of being absorbed by their host companies after completing their OJT. A student who begins as an intern could transition into a full-time employee, he pointed out and demand for Filipino hospitality workers in Taiwan remains high, driven by their strong communication skills, facility with English and service-oriented mindset.

This is not just training. Students can actually earn while learning, Go said, expressing optimism about the program’s impact.  Applicants will undergo online interviews with prospective employers prior to deployment to ensure alignment between the student’s skills and the hotel’s requirements.

According to San Pedro, Dreamark TW has already deployed 272 Filipino interns to Taiwan, with hundreds more lined up for future batches through partnerships with institutions in Luzon.  With UC now joining the network, the program is expected to scale significantly, with long-term projections reaching up to 10,000 student beneficiaries in the next few years, San Pedro noted.

The initial batches, however, will begin modestly, targeting 300 to 400 students, allowing both UC and Dreamark TW to ensure quality training and proper support systems, San Pedro said.

For UC students, especially those in the TESDA-funded diploma programs, the timing could not be more aligned.  The scholars, many of whom were previously unable to afford college, are now receiving free education, allowances, and training, and may soon step into international internships that offer both experience and income, Go stated.

Go added that before deployment, the university will conduct on-site inspections and validations of partner facilities to ensure that training environments meet standards of safety, legitimacy, and quality.  “We will make sure that our students are placed in secure and credible establishments,” Go said.

Across UC’s five major campuses -- UC Main, Banilad, Lapu-Lapu and Mandaue (UCLM), METC Mambaling, and South (Pardo-Talisay), there are currently about 4,000 students enrolled in hospitality-related programs.  For these students, Taiwan is not just a destination but a promise that after years of study, sacrifice, and perseverance, something better is waiting, Go noted. (Photos: UC/Google Images)

 

 

 

Cojuangco eyes nuclear energy, says part of PH’s energy plan

 CEBU CITY -- Pangasinan 2nd District Representative Mark Cojuangco seeks to integrate nuclear energy in the country’s national energy and development plan through his proposed House Bill # 8567 which prescribes incentives for the integration of nuclear energy into the country's electricity sector and outlining funding mechanisms and policy direction to accelerate the development of nuclear power, positioning it as a cornerstone of a more secure, stable, and economically resilient energy system.

"For decades, we have relied on energy sources that leave us vulnerable to global shocks and volatile prices. If we are serious about securing a stable and affordable energy future, we must take a clear and deliberate path forward. Nuclear energy must not be just an option; it is a necessity," said Cojuangco in a media briefing, April 24 at the Golden Peak Hotel, Cebu City.

He said that the proposal builds on the country's efforts to establish a strong nuclear regulatory framework following the enactment of the Philippine Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority (PhilAtom) Act. While PhilAtom laid the foundation for the safe and secure use of nuclear energy, this measure marks the next critical step, shifting from readiness to implementation.

The proposal comes at a critical time, as instability in global oil markets continues to expose the Philippines' heavy reliance on imported fossil fuels. Rising fuel costs are already driving up electricity prices, transportation expenses, and the cost of basic goods, posing risks to both economic growth and household welfare.

The proposed bill introduces targeted incentives and enabling financing structures and the bill aims to ensure that nuclear energy projects can be pursued efficiently and at scale, making it a viable long-term solution to the country's energy challenges, he added.

The measure also highlights the Philippines' untapped nuclear assets, including the Philippine Nuclear Power Plant (PNPP), a fully constructed and previously tested facility. According to Cojuangco, these assets represent not just sunk costs, but strategic opportunities to deliver affordable and reliable electricity.

"We are sitting on valuable infrastructure that can significantly lower electricity costs and reduce our dependence on imported fuels. The question is no longer whether nuclear energy is viable. It is whether we are willing to act," he added.

Cojuangco also emphasized that nuclear energy offers a unique advantage by providing consistent baseload power without greenhouse gas emissions. Unlike intermittent renewable sources that require backup systems, nuclear energy can operate independently, ensuring stability in the country's power supply while supporting long-term sustainability goals.

He added that with nuclear energy, the cost of electricity per kilowatt hour can be reduced to only PhP5.00/kwh. According to Meralco, the current electricity rate stands at PhP 13.82 per kwh, emphasizing that this reduction will impact the lives of every Filipino because it will mean that the household budget can be diverted to other essential expenses.

The bill also underscores the broader economic impact of adopting nuclear energy. By reducing reliance on imported coal and liquefied natural gas (LNG), the Philippines stands to save billions in foreign exchange while lowering electricity costs for businesses and households, enhancing competitiveness, attracting investments, and creating opportunities for jobs development.

"What we are seeing today is a clear reminder that our current energy system is not built for resilience. Nuclear energy provides a clean, cheap, and reliable solution that supports both economic growth and environmental sustainability.   We cannot afford to wait for another crisis before making the right decision. If we want to build a stronger, more independent Philippines, we must invest in solutions that will stand the test of time,” said Alpas Pinas Lead Convenor Gayle Certez.

Certez added that the need for decisive action has never been clearer. Nuclear energy is not just about powering homes; it is about empowering a nation. (Photos: MBCNewman)

 

 

Special Feature: DENR-EMB7 confirms lifting cease-and-desist order against Monterraza

CEBU CITY – The Department of Environment and Natural Resources- Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB) in Region 7confirmed on April 17, its lifting of the cessation of operations order (CDO) against the Monterrazas de Cebu development after the project proponent, The Mont Property Group, Inc., implemented corrective measures required under its Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC).

 EMB- 7Regional Director Atty. John Edward Ang said the stoppage was lifted on the basis of documented remedial works, compliance milestones and settlement of penalties imposed under PD 1586, for violation of ECC Conditions.  Ang explained that the project proponent has constructed and enhanced 23 detention ponds with a combined capacity of approximately 52,468 cubic meters.

The ponds, EMB said, are engineered to contain and regulate surface runoff, attenuate peak flows, and help mitigate potential flooding impacts on downstream communities.  According to Ang, on-site inspections verified pond excavation, embankment stabilization, inlet and outlet control structures, sediment traps, and site stabilization measures such as vegetative cover and erosion-control blankets.  

Key corrective actions implemented by Monterraza included the construction and enhancement of 23 detention ponds strategically located across the development site to intercept surface run off. It also established approximately 52,468 cubic meters of detention capacity to hold rain run-off and prevent flooding in downstream areas. 

Monterraza also installed inlet/outlet control structures and sediment traps to improve water quality and prolong the operational life of the detention system, and site stabilization measures as vegetative cover and erosion control blankets to minimize soil loss.  “While the structural measures represent a meaningful step toward reducing flood risk, continued monitoring and maintenance are essential to ensure long-term effectiveness.

EMB Region 7recognizes the importance of timely remedial action to protect communities and the environment.  The detention ponds and associated measures represent a meaningful step toward mitigating flood risk, but continued monitoring and maintenance are essential to ensure long-term effectiveness,” Ang stated. 

EMB-7 has instructed Monterrazas to submit as-built drawings, operation and maintenance plans, and hydrologic monitoring data, and has required a regular maintenance schedule for sediment removal, vegetation management, and structural inspections. 

Ang bared that EMB-7 outlined its next steps to ensure compliance and performance with its ongoing monitoring of the detention ponds’ performance during rainfall events and review hydrologic data submitted by the proponent.   Should monitoring reveal deficiencies or insufficient capacity under extreme conditions, EMB will require additional mitigation measures and set timelines for corrective action.  

Monterraza development details and controversial issues 

Monterrazas de Cebu or Monterraza is an upscale rice-terraces-inspired residential development on upland Barangay Guadalupe developed by Genvi Development Corporation/Mont Property Group with Chief Strategic Officer Slater Young as its project ambassador.  

Based on EMB’s report obtained by this writer, construction was suspended since November 2025 due to DENR stoppage order 2752, when the project came under fire after Typhoon Tino in late 2025 caused massive flooding in communities at the base of the mountain, especially along Banawa Creek.  

Residents and officials blamed increased surface runoff from the hillside development due to earth-moving and vegetation removal.  On November 7, 2025, DENR-EMB7 launched its probe with technical experts to assess ECC compliance, slope stability, and drainage systems, and by November 12, 2025, EMB7 issued the stoppage order due certain violations. 

According to EMB’s findings, Monterraza was guilty of cutting trees in 2022 without any tree-cutting permit from the government and that out of over 700 trees, only 11 remained uncut.  The Bureau also said that the developer failed 10 out of 33 Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) conditions. 

Further reports indicated that Monterraza did not have discharge permit, a violation under the Philippine Clean Water Act of 2004 and it has inadequate retention ponds with only 12 built/to be built versus planned 15+.DENR said 18,500 cubic meters capacity are not enough for water retention.

EMB-7 said Monterraza breached several laws such as PD-705 Revised Forestry Code, PD-1586 Environmental Impact Statement System. In December 2025, EMB-7 filed criminal complaints against Monterraza for breaking forestry laws. DENR-EMB7 “will not hesitate to enforce corrective actions, including suspension, penalties, or other legal remedies,” it said. 

Cebu City probe and findings 

The Cebu City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CCENRO) headed by Engr. Editha Peros said her office did not receive any application for a tree-cutting permit from Monterraza, and on March 3, 2026, Peros asked Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival to stop construction because the developer lacks earth-moving and tree-cutting permits. 

Office of the Building Official (OBO)-Cebu City Chief, Architect Florante Catalan bared that the developer secured all OBO permits, adding that environmental issues are not within its job and referred the matter to CCENTRO. 

On November 10, 2025, Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival ordered a City-led inspection separate from the DENR probe.  The City requested for the DENR-EMB findings for clarification, and found that on August 26, 2025, they met with Slater Young to discuss flood control CSR projects--including detention ponds, drainage improvements, Quijada Drive upgrades. The meeting now drew scrutiny. 

The Cebu City Council on Feb 3, 2026 approved a request from OBO to issue cease-and-desist order (CDO) due to lacking permits and on March 10, 2026, the City Council approved tighter monitoring after the executive session. “They have the authority to issue the CDO because they failed to comply with the submission of these permits,” said City Councilor Sisinio  Andales while Councilor Joel Garganera explained the runoff issue that it “becomes like the flush of a toilet—it goes straight into the drainage system.”

Vice Mayor Tomas Osmeña also said that development is fine but proper planning is essential to prevent water from rushing into the lowland neighborhoods. 

Guadalupe Barangay Captain Apol Ross Enriquez demanded a full-scale technical review of Monterraza’s drainage systems and water retention ponds which findings revealed that an unusually high surface run off from the project may have contributed to flooding, soil saturation, and slope instability downstream. 

Invoking the Local Gov’t Code to protect community safety, the Barangay Council led by Enriquez asked for community dialogue with developer presenting all permits, engineering plans, flood mitigation measures and the council passed the motion en masse for the CDO against Monterraza on November 5, 2025. 

Developer side and netizens reactions 

Developer Genvi/Mont Property Group denied cutting 700 trees without permits and told inspectors on January 12, 2026 that construction was already suspended since November 2025 and current work only for repairing retention ponds.  

In an executive session on March 10, 2026, the developer also denied violating the stop work order. Said earth-moving was in a different part of property not covered by CDO, and the site is shared with another developer, and it claimed that ponds are 80 percent larger than what the law requires.  Slater Young, in his several interviews in2023, allayed concerns and assured the government that the project is designed with sustainability. 

Meanwhile, ordinary people and netizens' reactions towards the Monterraza project were triggered after Typhoon Tino flash floods that allegedly blamed the Monterraza development causing the floods which went viral. 

Residents near the project were worried about their safety because removing vegetation makes rainwater flow down much faster, increasing flood and landslide risks. Environmental advocates on the other hand called for greater transparency and accountability in approving and monitoring of large-scale hillside developments.  Homes and businesses affected claimed that Banawa Creek area downstream reported flooding, soil saturation, slope instability. 

DENR-EMB7 final technical evaluation report and its findings on drainage, slope stability, retention ponds, and ECC compliance will be submitted to the Cebu City Gov’t and other regulatory agencies for references and continuous monitoring of the Monterrazas de Cebu.  

Baricuatro: Cebu is 80% ready for ASEAN Summit 2026 on May 7-8

CEBU CITY- Cebu governor Pamela Baricuatro declared that Cebu is 80 percent ready for the  48th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in Cebu on May 7 to 8, 2026 to happen primarily in Lapu-lapu City.

“As head of the Cebu Organizing Committee, I should say that 80% ready nata,” Gov. Baricuatro said during the press briefing of the Cebu Provincial Organizing Committee (POC), today, April 23 at the Capitol. 

Baricuatro, joined by Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival and Mandaue City Mayor Jonkie Ouano, Lapu-Lapu City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office chief Nagiel Bañacia and Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Region 7 Director Simon Arias, who also provided updates on preparations within their respective jurisdictions.

With security, infrastructure, and emergency systems nearing full operational capacity, Cebu Province is entering the final stretch of preparations for the ASEAN Summit, signaling readiness to host one of the region’s most high-level diplomatic gatherings.

The summit is expected to gather in Cebu the heads of state of the 11 ASEAN member states—Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste, and Vietnam—to discuss various areas of cooperation and emerging regional issues.

The summit is expected to have spillover effects in neighboring Cebu and Mandaue cities. Around 3,000 delegates—including official representatives, support staff, and members of the international media—are expected to attend.

“As far as the security is concerned, 80% complete na with enhanced measures, emergency response systems and hospital Code Blue readiness in place.  It’s safe to say that in Cebu, we are ready,” Baricuatro added.

The governor noted that several ministerial meetings initially scheduled to be held in Cebu have been canceled or shifted to virtual platforms due to the ongoing Middle East conflict. However, the Leaders’ Summit will proceed as planned.

“This is a momentous event. Cebu being featured over all the 82 provinces; kita’y napilian. That alone would inspire us nga we will do our best nga let’s be hospitable to our guests, give them the warmest Cebuano welcome,” she said. 

Baricuatro discussed the significance of the quantum tourism promotion event for Cebu, emphasizing its importance in boosting tourism with Cebu’s hosting the ASEAN Summit 2026.  She added that the event is described as a major promotion, highlighting Cebu and Manila as the primary focus among all provinces.

“Cebu is positioned as the second city outside of Manila, indicating its strategic importance in tourism.  Because of the national scope of the event, we confirm our role in supporting the Summit regardless of the specific agenda or requests from the delegates,” Baricuatro stated.