Siargao LGU to strictly implement 20-meter easement zone

The local government of General Luna town in Siargao said it will strictly implement the 20-meter easement zone along the shoreline of the famous surfing island.

According to a report by Mav Gonzales on GMA's 24 Oras on Monday, around 1,700 establishments have already been inspected by authorities since March 2019 to ensure that they do not occupy the 20-meter space in front of the waters.

"Ang DENR tumulong na sa amin para maano ang implementation natin para sa easement natin. Almost 50 establishment na ang naisyuhan [ng notice of violation]," according to General Luna Mayor Vicvic Solloso.

The owners of these establishments will be given until the end of the year to comply. Otherwise, the local government may issue a temporary closure order against these structures.

Some resorts in Siargao's famous Cloud 9 surfing area were among those that received a notice of violation.

"Mawawala 'yung dalawang villa especially 'yung bar at saka pool mawawala. 'Yung matitira na lang is 'yung restaurant na lang," said Marvin Bonalos, receptionist of a resort.

Local authorities also inspected the sewerage system of the establishments near the beach.

The trash disposal system in the island is also being improved through waste segregation in its temporary dump site. —Dona Magsino/LDF. GMA News