Environment and Natural Resources Assistant Secretary Leonilo Lariosa recently acknowledged the efforts of Governor-elect Emilio Macias II in the development of the Balanan Lake in Barangay Sandulot, Siaton, Oriental Negros.

Lariosa toured all attractions and facilities developed at the Lake, Monday, and said he was overwhelmed by its beauty and preservation. He also said his office will continue to provide technical support to develop it.

Charlie Fabre, Community Environment and Natural Resources officer in Dumaguete City, said the construction of the facilities slightly disturbed the lake. He assured though they have taken measures to prevent a major destruction. Local and foreign tourists regularly frequent the lake, particularly during weekends.

The association of local farmers in the area are presently used as tourist guides, and they collected P200,000 in cash donations from tourists last month. Part of this came from rentals of chairs, tables, pedal boats and other amenities of the lake.

Fabre said that since the lake has not been formally opened, the donations will directly go to the funds of the association. Macias said he plans to enrol its members with the PhilHealth insurance.

Meanwhile, the Armed Forces of the Philippines is supporting the fight against global warming through a simultaneous tree-planting activity on June 29, as part of the environment month celebration.

PENR officer Jun Cabrido said his office is ready with the seedlings. In Region 7, the target is to plant 1.2 million seedlings.

Among the areas identified for planting are those surrounding Lake Balinsasayao and the roads leading to it, and the mangrove areas of Tanjay, Bais and Ayungon.

Cabrido said army officials of the province have coordinated with the DENR for technical support, the local government units for the transportation, and with the schools for the additional support.*MA/JG

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