By Bohol Chronicle
The sector opposing the controversial reclamation project in Panglao received commitments from environmentalist groups to take legal actions against the planned reclamation in Panglao.
LAWYERS VICTOR DE LA SERNA AND RAUL Barbarona are already studying possible court action to stop the project. It was also learned that lawyer Alexander Lim is likewise strongly objecting the project.
According to former Panglao Mayor Doloreich Dumaluan, if the governor signs the JDVA with OLIDI, they are also considering to include him in the case.
"We call on provincial officials and national agencies to stop this proposed reclamation and instead properly implement environmental laws here in the province.
The planned legal action came two days after an unprecedented mass protest action was staged last Tuesday by some 3,000 oppositors of the project coming from the cross-section of the community.
According to the objectors, the reclamation will destroy an already fragile marine ecosystem and pose serious threats to the biodiversity of the area.
The protesters assembled at the Plaza fronting the Capitol as some of their leaders took turns in urging provincial officials to reject and recall all plans to reclaim land in Panglao.
The project's opposition has gained support from various groups, including environmental lawyers who vowed to raise the matter to the courts.
Dumaluan said he is optimistic any plans to reclaim Panglao Bay would not push through as this will never get social approval.
Former OIC governor Atty. Victor de la Serna was among those who committed to back the oppositors who have organized themselves as Panglaoanons Against Reclamation (Pare).
Pare has launched a signature campaign to get as many oppositors especially in the three barangays near the proposed project.
"We will fight for Panglao and our right as Panglaoanons. For so many years we have been a peaceful community but our officials and some businessmen want to disrupt our livelihood and take away what nature has given to us," Dumaluan said.
According to Dumaluan, his group suspects that Gov. Erico Aumentado has already signed the Joint Venture and Development Agreement (JDVA) with OLIDI in order to pursue the reclamation.
Dumaluan called on the governor and the Sangguniang Panlalawigan to recall the JDVA with OLIDI.
Pare threatened to boycott all provincial officials who are running for elective posts in the May polls.
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