In the serene town of Buenavista, Bohol, a controversy brews over the construction of a shipyard, which has led to the destruction of 19 hectares of precious mangroves, reports have revealed.
Senator Raffy Tulfo, in a recent Senate hearing, lambasted the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for what he described as a failure to safeguard the nation’s natural resources.
“The DENR, the government agency tasked with protecting our environment, appears to be the very entity betraying it,” Tulfo declared, pointing to evidence of negligence and mismanagement.
The senator’s fiery remarks come amid reports of illegal structures and environmental degradation, particularly in the famed Chocolate Hills of Bohol.
The shipyard in question, established by Artemis Marine and Industrial Construction Inc. (AMICI), has been touted as a significant economic boon for the region.
Local officials have praised the facility for providing jobs and promising growth.
However, the environmental cost of this development has sparked a heated debate.
Senator Tulfo questioned the issuance of an Environmental Clearance Certificate (ECC) that allowed the shipyard’s construction, despite the clear prohibition of mangrove deforestation under Republic Act 1990.
“Why was this shipyard allowed to rise in Bohol? Why was it granted an ECC?”
Tulfo inquired, demanding explanations from the DENR officials present, including Secretary Loyzaga.
The senator’s critique extends beyond this single incident, accusing the DENR of longstanding negligence.
“You are supposed to be the protectors of our environment,” he admonished.
SHIPYARD BACKGROUND
In a significant boost to the local economy and the Philippine maritime industry, Buenavista, Bohol inaugurated its first-ever ship-building and ship repair facility.
The Artemis Marine and Industrial Construction Inc. (AMICI), sprawling over 19 hectares in Barangay Cruz, opened its doors on November 28, 2023, marking a historic day for the town and the province.
The facility, established by the Primary Group of Builders (PGB) in 2018, has already created a wave of employment opportunities, with at least 400 workers, 80% of whom are locals.
Buenavista Mayor Dave Duallo hailed the project as a “game-changer,” not only for providing jobs to out-of-school youths but also for fostering inclusive growth within the community.
AMICI’s advanced infrastructure, capable of dry-docking up to 12 ships simultaneously, addresses the critical shortage of shipyards in the country.
This shortage became particularly evident when Typhoon Odette struck in 2021, highlighting the need for more such facilities.
With plans to expand capacity to accommodate 20 ships, AMICI is set to become a pivotal player in the maritime sector.
The establishment of AMICI is expected to catalyze economic growth, not just through job creation but also by attracting further investments to the region, Mayor Duallo said.
Bohol Governor Aris Aumentado envisions the facility as a gateway to transforming Buenavista into an economic zone, thereby inviting more investors to Bohol.
This development is a testament to the town’s resilience and commitment to progress, promising a brighter future for Buenavista and its residents, said Duallo during the shipyard’s inauguration.