Davao del Sur, Philippines – The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Davao Region has filed a complaint against an inland resort located in Brgy. Coronon, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur, which is part of Mount Apo Natural Park, a protected area.
According to DENR, the resort was issued a Notice of Violation and a Cease-and-Desist Order in 2024 for violating Republic Act 11038, or the Expanded National Integrated Protected Areas System (ENIPAS), which protects the environment and prohibits the establishment of any business or facility within areas under protection due to their natural resources.
The inland resort also reportedly lacked of clearance from the Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) of DENR.
Despite previous violations and Cease-and-Desist Orders, the resort ignored these directives and continued its operations and accepting bookings.
In addition, the resort violated regulations by constructing permanent structures within the 40-meter easement of the Langan River.
Meanwhile, six other businesses in the same area are also set to face complaints from DENR for similar violations.
DENR stands firm that those responsible will be held accountable for the resort’s disregard of the law and its continued operation, despite the strict prohibition against establishing businesses in protected areas.