Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival has announced that he will respect the decision of the City Council not to issue a cease-and-desist order (CDO) against the controversial Monterrazas de Cebu hillside development project. During a press conference on Monday, April 13, 2026, Archival emphasized the importance of balancing urban progress with necessary environmental protections.
Council's Decision and Mayor's Response
"The council has its own reason, and I would not object to that," stated Archival, addressing the council's resolution that directed against issuing a CDO for the project located in Barangay Guadalupe. He made these remarks amidst ongoing debates over the development's compliance with local regulations.
Uncertainty Over Official Recommendations
Archival further noted that he is unsure whether formal recommendations from the Cebu City Environment and Natural Resources Office (Ccenro) and the Office of the Building Official (OBO) have reached his office. These agencies have the authority to recommend stoppage orders for such projects.
"I don't really know, I cannot find it. The council's resolution came first, and I don't like to have another decision considering that there is already a suggestion coming from the council," he explained, highlighting the procedural complexities involved.
Clarification on Authority and Endorsements
On March 3, Ccenro clarified that the authority to issue a CDO against the Monterrazas de Cebu project lies with the Mayor's office, not with environmental regulators or the OBO. In a letter, Ccenro head Engr. Editha Peros endorsed a resolution from the City Council requesting a CDO for the project.
Basis for the Council's Resolution
The council's resolution stemmed from alleged permit violations, including the lack of a Special Hauling Permit and tree-cutting clearance. These issues were identified during a joint inspection reported by Councilor Sisinio Andales in a session. Ccenro explained that its mandate is limited to enforcing environmental requirements, while OBO is restricted to the National Building Code, leading both offices to defer the matter to the mayor for appropriate action.
Consequently, the council's request for a CDO was formally passed to Archival, with a reminder that the final decision on suspending the project rests with his office.
Developer's Response and Upcoming Press Conference
In response, the Mont Property Group Inc., developer of Monterrazas de Cebu, has scheduled a press conference for April 15 to address the project's issues. In their invitation, the company described the council's resolution not to impose a CDO as "good news," but noted that misinformation continues to circulate on social media and other platforms.
This situation underscores the ongoing tension between development initiatives and environmental conservation efforts in Cebu City, with key stakeholders navigating regulatory frameworks and public scrutiny.
