City Councilor Elgin Damasco urged concerned city offices to immediately look into and address complaints from residents of Barangay Bacungan over a reported fly infestation allegedly linked to the operations of a poultry farm in Sitio Maranat, stressing the need for action rather than a formal investigation at this stage.
Damasco said residents have raised concerns about health risks brought by the growing number of flies, with reports that food can no longer be properly served in homes and that some children have fallen ill.
He said the situation has caused fear and discomfort in the community and should not be ignored.
He added that the problem has also affected livelihoods tied to tourism in Bacungan, as some business owners have complained of fewer visitors.
According to him, there are reports that tourists leave early because of the fly infestation, forcing some establishments to reduce their workforce.
Damasco also cited claims that the poultry farm has been operating without a sanitary permit since 2025, saying this should already prompt city offices to review its compliance with health and environmental regulations.
“Kung patuloy nating hayaan ang ganitong sitwasyon, hindi lang magbabungan ang maapiktuhan kundi pati ang reputasyon ng buong lungsod ng Puerto Princesa,” Damasco said.
He called on the City Health Office and the City Environment and Natural Resources Office to act quickly, particularly in checking sanitary and environmental compliance and in putting in place measures to control the spread of flies.
“This is not just a barangay issue. Ang kanilang problema ay problema ng lungsod ng Puerto Princesa,” he said.
Damasco said addressing the concern now is important to protect public health, livelihoods, and the reputation of Puerto Princesa City, noting that similar problems could arise elsewhere if poultry operations are not properly managed.
