Authorities have started clearing Siargao Island from illegal structures on the beaches.
What was done in Boracay Island in Aklan province will be applied in Siargao though it will not be closed to the public, assured Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Secretary Roy Cimatu.
Cimatu was with Interior Secretary Eduardo Año during the launch of the campaign in General Luna, Surigao del Norte.
During the launching, Cimatu and Año spearheaded the demolition of the function hall of Cabontug Resort, which is owned and operated by the municipal government.
The rehabilitation will include tearing down illegally built structures and freeing up the intended easement of at least 20 meters from the shore.
According DENR-CARAGA director Felix Alicer, 391 of 1,298 establishments in Siargao violated the easement rule.
Cimatu assured there were no plans to close Siargao but the DENR will strictly implement all environmental laws.
Authorities issued notices for business owners to demolish illegal structures in their establishments.
“Business establishments that will defy the order will be shut down,” Cimatu warned.
