Cebu City councilors have called for a broader assessment of all hillside developments, emphasizing that concerns about flooding and environmental risks should not be limited to the Monterrazas project. This call comes amid a proposed resolution by Vice Mayor Tomas Osmeña urging Mayor Nestor Archival to issue a cease-and-desist order against Monterrazas developments until all water catchments are completed and operational.
Councilor Winston Pepito's stance
Councilor Winston Pepito stressed that the focus should not be on a single development. "Monterrazas has been subjected to extensive scrutiny and investigations, not only by national agencies but also by the City Council and private entities," Pepito said. He noted that the City Council has already held an executive session to examine the issue and gather information for legislation.
During discussions, Pepito stated that findings presented to the council showed that the flooding experienced during Typhoon Tino was not solely due to the Monterrazas development. He pointed to a study by the University of the Philippines, which found that the project was not responsible for the flooding reported in various areas of Cebu City.
Pepito also clarified that the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has lifted the restrictions previously imposed on the project. Based on reports submitted to authorities, Monterrazas has complied with all required conditions. "As to why Monterrazas alone is being questioned when there are probably hundreds of other developments taking place, I do not have the answer," he said.
Given these concerns, Pepito said the council deems it more appropriate to refer the matter to the Technical Infrastructure Committee (TIC) for further evaluation. "If it is found to be non-compliant, then a cease-and-desist order may be warranted," he added.
Councilor Dave Tumulak's support
Councilor Dave Tumulak echoed the call for a more comprehensive review. He clarified that the TIC, together with the City Environment and Natural Resources Office, is tasked with reviewing reports submitted by the developer and assessing the effectiveness of remedial measures implemented on site. "The TIC is responsible for reviewing the report submitted by Monterrazas and checking the remedial measures that have been undertaken," Tumulak said.
He also questioned why public attention has been heavily focused on Monterrazas while other hillside developments have not undergone similar scrutiny.
Councilor Harry Eran's perspective
Councilor Harry Eran noted that the discussion on Monterrazas should be viewed within the broader context of hillside and watershed development across Cebu City. He observed that Monterrazas became the subject of intense scrutiny after flooding in Barangay Guadalupe during Typhoon Tino in November 2025 and after the DENR found that the project violated 10 of the 33 conditions of its Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC). The project also drew attention after two retention ponds reportedly collapsed during the typhoon.
"Our concern is the safety of the families living below these upland areas, and that concern applies to hillside development across the city, not to a single project," Eran said.
The TIC is expected to proceed with its review of Monterrazas' flood-mitigation measures and may use its findings as part of a broader assessment of hillside development and watershed management policies in Cebu City.
