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Bohol guv warns raps may be filed vs divers behind coral reef destruction

Philippines | Luzon

Bohol guv warns raps may be filed vs divers behind coral reef destruction

By Calvin Cordova

CEBU CITY—Bohol Gov. Aris Aumentado has warned that the province will take legal actions against those responsible for the destruction of coral reefs in one of the province’s top diving spots.

The provincial government of Bohol is conducting an investigation after some corals in Balicasag Island were vandalized.

Aumentado has instructed the Provincial Legal Office (PLO) to take necessary steps after receiving video footage showing some divers engaging in activities that threatened the marine life in Balicasag Island.

“There were divers who allowed their guests to step or walk on corals. There were also corals that were vandalized. What they did was very destructive,” said Aumentado.

Aumentado warned that once those divers are identified, the PLO will take legal steps.

“I am warning those violators. Once you are identified, the PLO will be filing cases. We will teach them a lesson for destroying our marine environment. I am warning the divers in Balicasag, you will be facing serious cases once you are identified,” said Aumentado.

Aumentado said divers should make sure that marine resources are protected in the conduct of their businesses.

The governor said that since these marine resources are providing livelihood, they must be preserved.

“I hope you change your ways in giving your tourists enjoyment. Do it in the right way. These corals are the reasons why we have tourists and then you are the ones who destroy these corals. It means you don’t value the things that give you livelihood,” said Aumentado.

The governor also urged the public to immediately report to authorities any activities that threaten the province’s marine resources.

“We will immediately file cases through our PLO,” Aumentado warned.

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