DPWH sought for BCC treasure hunt
MAYOR Mauricio Domogan has asked the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH] for a definite stand on the proposed treasure hunting at the Baguio Convention Center.
Domogan said the initial answer of the agency does not prohibit or allow the activity at the city owned site and has asked for clarification.
Domogan said treasure hunter, Eliseo Cabusao Jr. has reiterated he will comply with findings by the government agencies but lamented a deci-
sion has made without an inspection as earlier agreed.
Domogan said the DPWH has to clarify the stand they have given to guide the city as well as Cabusao on what to do.
Earlier, Domogan said the although Cabusao has a permit from the National Museum and the go signal from the local council to proceed with his treasure hunt, the safety of the Baguio Convention Structure will have to be considered and upheld.
Domogan said the DPWH has given its definite findings on the stability as well as the viability of continuing with the proposed treasure hunt while rehabilitation work at the BCC is ongoing.
The chief executive said in the wake of the rehabilitation of the BCC its structural integrity should be taken into consideration adding, if indeed it will affect the structure, Cabusao has to state how he will deal with the problem and if it will be remedied within the one year period of the work allotted for the center.
Cabusao believes is the fabled Yamashita treasure is at the area of the BCC, a sharing scheme has been crafted for the city with 35% going to the city; 30% to the national government through the National Museum and the remainder going to Cabusao.
Cabusao is the lone treasure hunter who has acquired a permit from the National Museum carrying with him a Treasure Hunting and Disposition of Recovered Treasures Permit which supersedes local laws.
Domogan said a meeting with the DPWH and the CBAO is slated to discuss the matter.