In Bohol, Loboc River works resume amid renewed concerns

TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol —The resumption of construction along Bohol’s iconic Loboc River has reignited concerns among residents, tourism operators and environmental advocates over the potential impact of a P3.5-billion flood control project on the river’s natural landscape and tourism industry.

Dredging and the installation of steel sheet piles have raised fears of damage to firefly habitats, loss of riverside vegetation and changes to the scenic waterway, one of Bohol’s major tourist attractions.

The project, implemented by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in Central Visayas, has also drawn calls for transparency regarding its environmental assessments, engineering studies and public consultations.

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Water to Forest Eco-lodge, among those opposing aspects of the project, warned that extensive riverbank modifications could harm the ecosystem and livelihoods dependent on tourism.

‘Uglification’

Members of the Bohol Provincial Board inspected the site on June 20 and July 24 following complaints from residents and tourism stakeholders.

Construction was later halted but has recently resumed, prompting renewed criticism. Some residents and visitors described the works as the “uglification” of Loboc River, while social media users called for efforts to “Save Loboc River.”

In a statement on Thursday, the Loboc municipal government defended the project, citing recurring floods and erosion that threaten riverside communities, homes and roads.

The municipality said the project covers vulnerable riverbanks in 11 barangays, including Canlasid, Ugpong and Valladolid, which have a combined 1,267 residents.

“The Loboc River is part of our identity, our home, and a source of livelihood for generations of Lobocanons,” the municipal government said, while noting the need to protect families living along its banks.

It said consultations with the DPWH and local stakeholders resulted in agreed modifications, including restoring greenery along affected riverbanks after construction.

The municipality also said it had requested technical studies, environmental clearances and other project documents from concerned agencies.

“Environmental preservation and community safety must guide the project as it moves forward,” it said.

Meanwhile, critics continued to urge the DPWH and environmental authorities to disclose the project’s safeguards and explain how flood protection measures would be carried out without causing lasting damage to the river’s ecosystem and tourism appeal. INQ