Solons tell DoTr to make 3-strike policy applicable also to tollway operators
SOLONS called on the Department of Transportation (DoTr) to hold expressway operators similarly liable under a “3-strike” policy that will be imposed on road users who pass through tollroads without sufficient load on their radio-frequency identification (RFID) stickers. In a hearing conducted by the House committee on transportation, Valenzuela 1st District Rep. Weslie T. Gatchalian said operators should also ensure that their RFID system works properly, citing cases of unused loads by motorists that get deducted. “If we’re going to impose heavy fines on our motorists, we should give even heavier penalties to the toll operators,” he said in Filipino. DoTr Undersecretary Garry V. de Guzman said in the hearing they will be releasing the minimum operating standards for toll operators soon, which will include corresponding penalties for violations. The DoTr aims to have a fully cashless system for tollways. — Gillian M. Cortez
2 Palawan bays now free from red tide
THE Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) said the bays of Honda and Puerto Princesa in Palawan are now free from red tide contamination. In its third shellfish bulletin for the year, BFAR said shellfish harvested from the two areas are now fit for human consumption. Several other areas, however, are still positive for red tide such as Inner Malampaya Sound in Palawan; Sorsogon Bay; Dauis and Tagbilaran in Bohol; and Tambobo Bay in Negros Oriental. Other areas that remain contaminated with red tide include Daram Island, Zumarraga, San Pedro Bay and Cambatutay Bay in Western Samar; Calubian, Carigara Bay, and Cancabato Bay in Leyte; Biliran Islands; Guiuan and Matarinao Bay in Eastern Samar; Dumanquillas Bay in Zamboanga del Sur; Balite Bay in Davao Oriental; and Lianga Bay and Hinatuan in Surigao del Sur. All types of shellfish and Acetes sp. or alamang harvested from affected areas are not safe for human consumption. However, other marine species can be eaten with proper handling. — Revin Mikhael D. Ochave
Malagos Resort partners with birdwatchers for new attraction; open to non-Davao City residents
MALAGOS Garden Resort (MGR), a part of the Malagos agri-ventures group, has partnered with a group of birders from the Davao Region to ensure the sustainability of its latest attraction — birdwatching through a newly-built tower. The Big Year Davao birder group will assist in identifying and documenting wild birds spotted in and around the resort, and mentor the Malagos core team on birdwatching. “This initiative of MGR is very commendable as it yields positive long term result towards biodiversity conservation,” said Julius R. Paner, spokesperson of The Big Year Davao. The resort has long maintained various species at its bird park, but the shows are currently suspended in compliance with health protocols. “Birds are an obvious indicator of a healthy environment. Birds are also very colorful. I love them because they represent the soul and the spirit. They represent freedom. Seeing them in the wild matters the most, taking pictures of them is secondary,” said Mr. Paner, also the tourism officer of neighboring Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur. Malagos, a 12-hectare agri-ecotourism resort, is open to guests from outside Davao City, subject to local government requirements. For more information, visit malagos.com. — Maya M. Padillo
