Malaybalay: The Malaybalay City government in Bukidnon vowed on Tuesday to explore all possible measures to address the environmental risks threatening one of its tourist spots amid ongoing infrastructure projects.

According to Philippines News Agency, Mayor Warren Jay Pabillaran has tasked the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) to investigate further and implement immediate measures to restore the pristine condition of Malinao Falls in Barangay Kalasungay. "We are for development, but as much as possible we should take care of its environmental side," he said.

Malinao Falls, known for its pristine water and lush vegetation, has become a tourist attraction and is considered one of the province's most promising destinations. Recently, ongoing infrastructure construction included bypass and diversion roads, forming a major bypass network linking the towns of Manolo Fortich and Impasug-ong and the cities of Malaybalay and Valencia.

However, Barangay Kalasungay's Indigenous People's Mandatory Representative, tribal chief Joemar Sario, filed a complaint with the local government requesting an assessment of the area around Malinao Falls. A report from the CENRO earlier this week revealed that, based on the May 21 assessment, there were significant environmental disturbances, including siltation along the riverbanks.