Ordinance boosting Panigan-Tamugan watershed protection drafted

A DAVAO City lawmaker said that his committee is already drafting an ordinance declaring the Panigan-Tamugan Watershed as a source water-protected area.

Councilor Temujin “Tek” Ocampo, chair of the committee on environment and natural resources, said they are currently polishing the ordinance and that, unlike the watershed ordinance, this one will strengthen the policies surrounding the water source.

“It will ensure nga kaning mga areas, especially sa mga boundaries, dili na siya masudlan unang-una ug mga business establishments, residential. It should be protected (It will ensure that the areas, especially along its boundaries, will not be encroached by business establishments and residential [houses]. It should be protected),” Ocampo said on Tuesday, February 13, 2024, during the Aprubado sa Konseho 20th City Council Media Forum at the Sangguniang Panlungsod.

Ocampo warned those who are planning to construct resorts along the watershed that their business permits will not be approved since the new Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP) is strict in granting permits, particularly in protected areas.

He added that people living near the boundary of the river will no longer be allowed to bathe in the area and they need to make sure that their structure will not cause pollution to the watershed.

He also said that through the ordinance, the influx of people going to the river will be regulated, especially those who want to use the area for recreational purposes. (Read full story on sunstar.com.ph/davao)