(File photo) Resort, hotel and restaurant owners on Panglao Island in Bohol province have been waiting for the return of tourists to revive the local economy devastated by the pandemic. 鈥擫EO UDTOHAN
TAGBILARAN CITY 鈥� A lawyer has called on the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and other relevant agencies to investigate a resort on Panglao Island in Bohol for alleged violation of the water code.
Lawyer Jordan Pizarras, also known as 鈥淭igpanalipud sa mga Bol-anon鈥� (Defender of Boholanos), said Modala Resort in Barangay Doljo constructed structures within the 30-meter 鈥渘o build zone鈥� and has blocked public access to the beach.
Under Article 51 of the Water Code of the Philippines, he said a 20-meter easement is required from the highest tide mark across the nation鈥檚 shorelines, with an additional 10-meter buffer mandated in Panglao due to its designation as a tourist estate.
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鈥淧ublic beaches are meant to be enjoyed by everyone, not just paying guests. Modala Resort鈥檚 actions warrant an investigation to ensure compliance with existing regulations and restore public access to the beaches,鈥� Pizarras said in a statement released on Dec. 1.
Municipal zoning ordinances reinforce the national policy by reserving buffer zones as open spaces for public pathways.
However, there were reports from affected individuals that the gates and fences of Modala Resort restrict residents鈥� access to the shoreline.
鈥淭his is not only a matter of law but of public equity and environmental preservation. We must ensure that our natural resources are accessible and preserved for future generations,鈥� Pizarras said.
The Inquirer tried but failed to reach Modala Resort for a statement.
At least 20 families in Panglao raised concerns over restricted access to the beach due to the structures built by the resort, including a restaurant and a function hall.
Local fishermen also lamented how the structures limited their access to fishing areas.
Aside from Pizarras, environmental and legal advocacy groups have joined calls for transparency and adherence to the law, urging municipal authorities to conduct a thorough review of Modala Resort鈥檚 permits and land use.
Panglao Island, composed of Dauis and Panglao towns, is Bohol鈥檚 tourism jewel.
However, it has faced environmental concerns over the past years due to structures built along the restricted zones.
Managing wastewater is also among the critical concerns of the island, which has no sewerage system or wastewater facility.