Reconstruction in Northern Cebu is on hold as local officials wait for official land assessments from the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB).
Governor Pamela Baricuatro and several mayors stressed that rebuilding earthquake-affected communities cannot proceed without scientific guidance to ensure safety and prevent future hazards.
During a recent disaster rehabilitation meeting, Baricuatro asked MGB representatives if updated geohazard data had been submitted to local government units to guide land reclassification.
MGB clarified that while it can provide technical recommendations, the authority to designate no-build zones rests with LGUs.
Daanbantayan Mayor Sun Shimura Layese said part of the delay stems from damaged MGB equipment, with replacements still in Manila, slowing detailed site evaluations.
San Remigio Mayor Mariano Martinez echoed the concern, noting the urgent need for definitive maps identifying safe and high-risk areas for housing and public facilities.
“While initial inspections were conducted immediately after the earthquake, what we now need are clear geohazard maps to guide safe reconstruction,” Martinez said.
He warned that rebuilding without these findings could endanger lives and public investments, especially in coastal and upland barangays.
Baricuatro underscored the challenge: “How can we start rebuilding if we don’t have proper guidance from the national agency on whether it is already safe to proceed?”
To expedite the process, the provincial government has formed a Technical Working Committee (TWC) composed of representatives from affected LGUs and provincial offices to coordinate closely with MGB.
The group aims to complete assessments before March so Northern Cebu can present a comprehensive rehabilitation plan at the upcoming Regional Development Council meeting.
Martinez welcomed the TWC, saying it would help resolve uncertainties and allow updates to the Comprehensive Land Use Plan, critical for safe reconstruction.
Assistant Provincial Administrator Aldwin Empaces emphasized that MGB’s assessment is key to ensuring infrastructure is built on stable ground and that public funds are not wasted.
Empaces warned that without proper geohazard evaluation, reconstruction could place homes and facilities over unstable ground, including hidden sinkholes, putting residents and investments at risk. (SBA)
