LA TRINIDAD, Benguet – The municipal government has ordered a stop to all excavation and development activities in Piripin Bato and Dreamland, Barangay Pico, after inspections revealed these were contributing to frequent flooding in the capital town.
Mayor Roderick Awingan issued Executive Order No. 81-2025, directing individuals and groups engaged in illegal excavation and construction in the area to immediately cease operations until proper permits and clearances are obtained.
“Based on our inspection and assessment, the development activities in Piripin Bato and Dreamland have been causing flash floods in Upper Bayabas every time there is heavy rain,” he said in an interview.
Awingan also tasked the Municipal Building Office, Engineering Office, Development Office, Environment and Natural Resources Office, the local police, and barangay officials to inspect and assess all active construction and excavation sites, issue notices of violation, and recommend legal action against violators.
They are required to submit weekly compliance reports to the Office of the Mayor.
Awingan said the town has long been suffering from severe flooding even during ordinary rainfalls, with muddy water from the mountains clogging drainage systems and overflowing onto main roads.
“We still have to get the exact number of persons engaged in illegal activities in the said area, that is why we have ordered several offices to conduct an inspection and identify who is engaged and file the necessary charges,” he added. **Liza Agoot
