CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The Malaybalay City government in Bukidnon vowed on Tuesday to explore all possible measures to address the environmental risks threatening one of
its tourist spots amid ongoing infrastructure projects

In a statement, Mayor Warren Jay Pabillaran said he has tasked the City Environment and
Natural Resources Office (CENRO) to investigate further and implement immediate measures to
restore the pristine condition of Malinao Falls in Barangay Kalasungay.
“We are for development, but as much as possible, we should take care of its environmental
side,” he said.
Malinao Falls, known for its pristine water and lush vegetation, has become a tourist attraction
and is considered one of the province’s most promising destinations.
Recently, ongoing infrastructure construction included bypass and diversion roads, forming a
major bypass network linking the towns of Manolo Fortich and Impasug-ong and the cities of
Malaybalay and Valencia.
However, Barangay Kalasungay’s Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative, tribal chief
Joemar Sario, filed a complaint with the local government requesting an assessment of the area
around Malinao Falls.
A report from the CENRO earlier this week revealed that, based on the May 21 assessment, there
were significant environmental disturbances, including siltation along the riverbanks. (Nef
Luczon/PNA)