Asik-Asik Falls

COUNCILOR Temujin Ocampo reiterated that recreational activities are prohibited in protected areas, especially the watershed.

The statement came in the wake of the incident on Sunday afternoon, Sept. 14, when a surge of water trapped 19 people at the Mini Asik-asik Falls, Purok 9, Barangay Carmen, Baguio District.

“We already have legislations in place regulating the entry of the public in these areas,” he added, noting the Watershed Code as one such law.

Activities in the area for study purposes can only be conducted through coordination with the barangays and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

“Dili pwede ng magsuroy-suroy lang og magligo-ligo,” he said.

In 2023, the Davao City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office issued an advisory prohibiting all recreational activities in the area following an extensive assessment.

The Detailed Flood and Landslide Susceptibility Map of the Mines Geosciences Bureau XI classified the area as highly susceptible to landslides.

MGB XI noted that tourists visiting the area are at risk of natural hazards such as rock falls, landslides, or flooding, especially during a heavy rainfall.

“We already have the Watershed Code, and the Panigan-Tamugan Ordinance…all the ordinances we need in order to prohibit the people from going there. Ang problema usahay naay makalusot, hangyoon nato ang barangay nga medyo striktohan nila,” he said.

He called on the local officials to assign village watchmen to prevent people from entering the protected areas.