Barbers to DENR: Check other tourist spots for environmental issues

Rep. Robert Ace Barbers INQUIRER File Photo

A lawmaker has urged the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to check other tourist destinations where business establishments may have been violating environmental laws similar to what happened in Boracay Island.

Surigao del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers pointed out on Friday that not only Boracay has environmental issues, but also other tourist destinations in the country where business and commercial establishments are thriving.

“I’m sure this is not just happening in Boracay, but this may also be the case in other tourist destinations,” Barbers said. “The cleanup should start now for the sake of our people living in those areas.”

Local officials should strictly implement the laws and ensure that all business establishments in their areas will not cause or contribute to the country’s environmental problems, Barbers stressed.

“I’m sure these business establishments are earning big bucks for their operation,” Barbers said.

“In return, they should give back to the people by not endangering their safety and health,” he added.

President Rodrigo Duterte recently warned to close Boracay Island, which draws millions of tourists each year, if the local government would fail to clean up the island for six months.

READ: Duterte blames local execs for Boracay woes

On Thursday, Department Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Secretary Roy Cimatu said that at least 50 establishments in Boracay have been served notices of violation for their non-compliance with water treatment laws. /jpv