Lawmakers seek probe into fatal Davao landslide
A group of lawmakers filed a resolution calling for a legislative investigation on the unfortunate landslide in Davao de Oro killing at least 68 people and about 100 are still missing.
House Deputy Majority Leader and ACT-CIS Party-list and Davao de Oro Rep. Ruwel Peter Gonzaga led the filing of House Resolution 1586 for the Congress to conduct an inquiry on the tragic incident despite the “no build zone” implemented in the area.
In a statement, Tulfo said the tragedy could be avoided if the “no build zone” was strictly implemented.
“What I cannot understand at this point is that this catastrophe could have been avoided if only laws were strictly implemented,” Tulfo said.
“Ang tanong, bakit may tao pa rin doon at hinayaan lang sila na manirahan sa lugar kahit na gumuguho ang lupa nito?” he added.
The solons said somebody has to take responsibility over this tragedy.
Tulfo also urged the House of Representatives to review the existing laws regulated by the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
“Despite the implementation of the “no build zone” policy, numerous residential structures and establishments were erected within the prohibited area, contributing to the heightened risk and severity of the landslide incident,” the lawmakers said in the resolution.
“It is imperative to investigate the circumstances surrounding the landslide, including the factors that led to the violation of the “no build zone” policy and the enforcement mechanisms employed by the relevant authorities,” the solons added.
The resolution noted that the tragedy underscores the need for a thorough review of existing laws, regulations, and policies governing land use, environmental protection, and disaster risk reduction, particularly those administered by the MGB.
It was also learned that devastating landslides have hit the province of Davao de Oro including the gold-rush villages of Napnapan in 2012 and 2015, and in the village of Diwalwal in 2005 to 2007.
Tulfo and the other lawmakers stated that the MGB plays a crucial role in overseeing mining activities, geological hazard assessments, and land use planning to ensure the safety and welfare of communities residing in geologically sensitive areas.
Other authors include ACT-CIS party-list Reps Edvic Yap and Jocelyn Tulfo, and Benguet Rep. Eric Yap, and Quezon City Rep. Ralph Tulfo.
