The Department of Environment and Natural Resources has lifted the cease of operations order against the Monterrazas de Cebu project, blamed for extreme flooding during Typhoon Tino last year. The Environmental Management Bureau in Central Visayas said the project proponent, The Mont Property Group Inc., implemented required corrective measures under its Environmental Compliance Certificate. EMB regional director John Edward Ang cited documented remedial works, compliance milestones, and settled penalties under Presidential Decree 1586.
MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources has lifted the cease of operations order against the Monterrazas de Cebu project.
The Environmental Management Bureau in Central Visayas said the project proponent constructed and enhanced 23 detention ponds with a combined capacity of approximately 52,468 cubic meters. These ponds are engineered to contain and regulate surface runoff, attenuate peak flows, and mitigate potential flooding impacts on downstream communities.
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.
"While the structural measures represent a meaningful step toward reducing flood risk, continued monitoring and maintenance are essential to ensure long-term effectiveness," said EMB Central Visayas regional director John Edward Ang.
The proponent has been instructed to submit as-built drawings, operation and maintenance plans, and hydrologic monitoring data, along with a regular maintenance schedule for sediment removal, vegetation management, and structural inspections. Next steps include monitoring pond performance during rainfall events and reviewing submitted hydrologic data.
