By CESAR JOLITO III

The Bacolod City government has launched an investigation into an alleged illegal dumping incident along the shoreline of a beach resort in Barangay Punta Taytay after a video of the act circulated on social media.

According to City Legal Officer Karol Joseph Chiu, the City Legal Office will conduct a formal inquiry following the viral video showing a person allegedly disposing of garbage near the coastal area on May 24.

Chiu said both the individual involved and the owner of the resort where the incident reportedly occurred will be invited for a dialogue as authorities determine possible violations of environmental laws and local waste management ordinances.

“Since the video is already on social media, and it has reached the attention of our local government, our office will conduct an investigation on the matter,” Chiu said.

The City Legal Office emphasized that the investigation aims to establish accountability and ensure strict enforcement of environmental protection measures in the city, particularly in coastal communities vulnerable to pollution and improper waste disposal.

The incident has also renewed calls for stronger public cooperation in protecting the environment.

City officials urged residents to immediately report illegal dumping and similar environmental violations to authorities to allow prompt action and prevent further damage to coastal and marine areas.

Bacolod continues to strengthen its environmental campaigns and waste management efforts amid growing concerns over shoreline pollution and improper garbage disposal practices./CJ, WDJ