DENR-EMB Region 7 lifts Cease and Desist Order vs Monterrazas after corrective measures
By Jel Santos
(MONTERRAZAS DE CEBU FACEBOOK PAGE)
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources–Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB) Region 7 said it lifted the Cease and Desist Order (CDO) against the Monterrazas de Cebu after the project proponent implemented the required corrective measures.
In November last year, the DENR formed a multi-stakeholder inspection and investigation team to review the Monterrazas de Cebu Project after public outcry linked the development to recent flooding.
EMB Region 7 said in a statement on Saturday, April 18, that the stoppage was lifted after the developer met the requirements of its Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) and paid penalties under Presidential Decree 1586.
Lawyer John Edward T. Ang, the regional director of EMB Region 7, said the decision was based on documented remedial works and compliance milestones undertaken by the project proponent, The Mont Property Group, Inc.
Ang said the developer constructed and enhanced 23 detention ponds with a combined capacity of about 52,468 cubic meters to help manage surface runoff and mitigate flooding risks in downstream communities.
“While the structural measures represent a meaningful step toward reducing flood risk, continued monitoring and maintenance are essential to ensure long-term effectiveness,” Ang said.
The EMB said on-site inspections verified key measures, including pond excavation, embankment stabilization, inlet and outlet control structures, sediment traps, and site stabilization such as vegetative cover and erosion-control blankets.
The bureau added that it has directed the project proponent to submit as-built drawings, operation and maintenance plans, and hydrologic monitoring data, and to implement a regular maintenance schedule.
“EMB Region 7 recognizes the importance of timely remedial action to protect communities and the environment,” Ang said.
“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.”
EMB Region 7 said it will continue monitoring the performance of the detention ponds, review submitted documents, and require additional mitigation measures if deficiencies are observed.
As such, the agency said it will coordinate with local government units and community stakeholders to ensure downstream safety and urged residents to report concerns related to drainage or flooding for prompt assessment.
The Monterrazas de Cebu, a premier hillside development located in Barangay Guadalupe, has drawn public attention following concerns linking it to flooding and drainage issues.