Senator Alan Peter Cayetano called for a clear, fact-based, and transparent resolution to the ongoing dispute involving the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Blue Star Construction and Development Corp. (BSCDC), and the Masungi Georeserve Foundation, Inc. (MGFI).
Leading the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee’s motu proprio hearing, Cayetano stressed the need to examine the legal and historical background of the joint venture agreement between the DENR and Blue Star for a government housing project inside the protected Masungi area.
“Let’s lay it out,” the veteran legislator said. “In a time when we’re finally realizing that we cannot abuse nature because it’s not sustainable, we’re a country and a people looking for models. This is an opportune time to conclude this in a very sober way and find real models. The people are watching.”
“This is an opportune time to conclude this in a very sober way and find real models.”
During the hearing, the DENR said it canceled the agreement with Blue Star due to legal defects and contractual violations. This agreement stated that the 300-hectare adjacent lot (Lot 10) would be used to construct 5,000 additional housing units.
In response, Blue Star representatives Billie and Ben Dumaliang defended the project, saying it aligns with the Expanded National Integrated Protected Areas System (E-NIPAS) law. They also claimed the DENR failed to issue a formal notice of violation before terminating the contract.
They clarified that no housing units have been built yet, as the agreement states construction can only begin once the DENR fully delivers the land free from encumbrances and claims.
Acknowledging the complex history of land ownership in the area, the seasoned lawmaker said the issue affects not just big developers and government officials but also ordinary citizens who may have unknowingly settled in protected areas.
“Let’s create a technical working group (TWG) to review all contracts, agreements, and proclamations involving Masungi lands.”
The senator urged both sides to submit clear data showing which parts of the land are occupied and which remain untouched. He also proposed creating a technical working group (TWG) to review all contracts, agreements, and proclamations involving Masungi lands.
“We’re all seeking the truth and if we all believe kung gaano ka importante itong lugar na ito for many reasons, yung flora and fauna, protection against disasters, if we all believe that and that’s what we all say ‘yung intention natin, then just coming out with the facts muna and what are the issues para mas maging clear ito,” Cayetano concluded.
