By Helen Castaño | 03:40 AM June 22, 2026
LOBOC, Bohol — Provincial board members conducted an inspection of the ongoing P3.5-billion flood control project being implemented by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) along the Loboc River following concerns raised by local stakeholders regarding its potential environmental and tourism impacts.
Leading the inspection on Saturday, June 20, were Board Members Jamie Aumentado Villamor, Lucille Lagunay, and Greg Jala, together with Loboc Mayor Raymond Jala.
The visit formed part of an investigation into issues brought before the Provincial Board by the Bohol Provincial Tourism Office, the Loboc Association of Hospitality and Accommodation (Laha), and the Loboc People’s Council (LPC).
The stakeholders expressed concerns over the project’s implementation along the riverbanks, particularly the reported removal of nipa palms and other natural vegetation that form part of the river ecosystem. They also cited possible impacts on fireflies and other sensitive species inhabiting the area, as well as concerns that structural interventions could alter the natural landscape that has long made the Loboc River one of Bohol’s premier tourist destinations.
During the site inspection, the officials assessed the project’s progress and its intended benefits for communities living along the riverbanks, including flood mitigation and riverbank protection.
They also listened to the concerns raised by local stakeholders regarding the project’s environmental and tourism implications.
“The concern is not about opposing development or flood mitigation efforts,” Villamor said. “What we are advocating for is transparency, adherence to scientific findings, and environmental responsibility in the implementation of infrastructure projects, while ensuring that the voices of affected communities are heard and considered.”
Villamor also urged the immediate release of key documents related to the P3.5-billion project, including the Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC), environmental permits, technical studies, and compliance reports, to allow the public and stakeholders to fully understand the project’s scope and impact.
In addition, the provincial board is seeking a thorough review of the project to determine whether it complies with existing environmental laws, regulations, and safeguard requirements.
No consultation
According to Anter Calipusan, president of the Loboc People’s Council, residents are deeply concerned about the project, claiming that the DPWH did not conduct consultations with affected stakeholders before its implementation.
“We are worried about the Loboc River Project because there was no consultation conducted by the DPWH and no opportunity was given to stakeholders to present their concerns,” Calipusan said.
The inspection is expected to help guide further discussions between government agencies, local officials, tourism stakeholders, and community representatives as efforts continue to balance infrastructure development with environmental conservation and sustainable tourism in Loboc.
The DPWH has yet to issue a statement regarding the concerns raised by stakeholders.
