Barangay Tisa officials have requested Mayor Nestor Archival’s assistance to preserve popular hiking trails in the city’s southern hills, which are threatened by ongoing and planned private developments.
In a letter dated January 28, Barangay Captain Bernardo Lapina Jr. asked the mayor to convene a meeting with developers and stakeholders to discuss continued public access to trails leading to Starbuks in Sitio Baksan, Sapangdaku, as well as the “spartan trails” connecting Tisa to Buhisan and Pamutan.
Lapina said several access points to the Starbuks trail have already been closed due to construction linked to Monterrazas de Cebu.
Vendors along the trail were also informed that parts of the area may be absorbed into the Monterrazas expansion or the Rise at Monterrazas project.
“While the local government of Barangay Tisa supports development, these trails are used by hundreds of residents weekly for recreation, fitness, and well-being,” Lapina said.
He proposed a city-led dialogue involving 8990 Development Corporation, Arcenas Development Corporation, owners of the Celestial Garden and Good Shepherd compound, and representatives from the barangays of Tisa, Buhisan, Sapangdaku, Guadalupe, and Pamutan. The goal is to balance urban development with preservation of recreational spaces.
Archival acknowledged the concerns but noted that the city has limited authority over trails on private land.
“For the meantime, since the area is not yet being used, it is very important that it is maintained,” the mayor said.
He added that he plans to ask Monterrazas de Cebu developers to coordinate with the city and affected barangays to ensure the trails remain clean and safe.
Archival also cited Starbuks in Sitio Baksan as a priority area, noting its popularity has been affected by waste and maintenance issues.
Cooperation among the city, barangays, and private developers, he said, is key to keeping the site accessible and well-maintained.
Barangay Tisa officials expressed hope that a solution can be found that respects property rights while safeguarding spaces vital for public health and recreation. (LLP)
