The local government unit (LGU) could possibly implement anew its municipal ordinance imposing a P20-ecological fee to Kaybiang Tunnel visitors.
Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO) Officer-in-Charge Bryan F. Novejas confirmed this development to Manila Bulletin on Monday (Feb. 22).
The LGU first imposed the ecological fee during the first week of February but temporarily postponed the implementation after drawing flak from tourists.
The ecological fee aims to generate funds to provide amenities and services to visitors, including peace and order, cleanliness, and health assistance.
According to Novejas, they record an average of five vehicular accidents per day within the area during weekends.
The tunnel grew in popularity among motorcycle riders and cyclists in 2020, when the less-restrictive modified general community quarantine (MGCQ) was imposed. From an average of 200 weekly visitors before the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, the number of weekend tourists has now swelled up to 2,500.
The mounds of trash left by tourists have also become a problem for the municipal government.
On Monday, the Cavite Provincial Mobile Force Company under the Cavite Police Provincial Office held a clean-up drive within the area. Plastic cups and bottles were among the sacks of garbage collected during the clean-up.