Funds for Lagundi reef rehabilation in Talisay sea sought

WHERE’S the US $10,000 cash intended for the rehabilitation of the Lagundi reef in barangay Poblacion, Talisay City?

That’s the question posed by opposition Councilor Danny Caballero in yesterday’s regular council session. The reef was run aground by a foreign vessel named the M/V Majuro in 2009.

The Talisay City government entered into a compromise agreement in which the ship owner will pay $10,000 instead of undergoing trial. Instead of being repaired, Caballero said the reef was used as a dumping ground for garbage.

Councilor Bernard Odilao said rehabilitation is being undertaken and buoys were set up in the area.  He said there were funds donated for the rehabilitation which remains intact.  Caballero said he plans to visit and dive at the Lagundi reef to determine its actual status.

Vice Mayor Alan Bucao told Odilao to present a committee report to clarify the reef’s status next week. Odilao chairs the environment committee.

Opposition figure Romeo Villarante who led the opposition bloc said the Lagundi reef can become a tourist attraction if properly managed and cared for. Correspondent Gabriel C. Bonjoc