The threat to the environment in Panglao is on-going even without the proposed reclamation project. “Those who claim to be concerned with the environment should open their eyes right now and admit that the destruction is already happening,” a businessman in neighboring Tagbilaran remarked. He said he finds it hypocritical for many self-proclaimed environmentalists to raise fury over the proposed reclamation project while turning a blind eye to the harmful practices that are destroying the island right at this time. “The wanton violation of the 20-meter salvage zone is a clear case in point that belies the claim of environmental concern of people including those who are opposing the reclamation project supposedly because of that,” the businessman said. While making no claims about expertise on environmental laws, he pointed out that there is no denying the violation committed by some of those who now project themselves as champions of the environment.

He said that the violations that they have committed are the best proof that they are not really sincere in their protests against the reclamation project. “Their acts prove that they are not really concerned about the environment because they did not hesitate to destroy it when they constructed structures and buildings right inside the salvage zone,” he added. The businessman also pointed to the lack of a comprehensive program particularly to address the diving and snorkeling activities of tourists and guests at the different resorts in the island. “If they are really concerned about the environment, why is there no noise from among the so-called environmentalists against the unregulated use of marine resources and diving spots?” he wondered.  According to the businessman, the people of Panglao should be the ones to confront these issues and not allow outsiders to dictate the terms for them. “There are many interlopers who are in it for reasons of their own. The point is that they can always leave if the situation deteriorates, but it is the people of Panglao who will be left behind to pick up the pieces,” he added.

At the moment, he said among those who have expressed interest in the environmental issues in Panglao are resort owners who were only lured by the island's business potentials, politicians who either are not from Panglao or lived most of their lives away from the town and NGOs who are in it only for the funding for their projects.  On the other hand, the fishermen and their families who have been left behind by the development and the poor folks who have not benefited from the present tourism boom do not have a voice on what they think about the issue. “It is sad because they are actually the ones who will suffer most if the destruction continues and the meltdown follows as a result,” he lamented.  The businessman said one good thing he has noticed is that the fishermen have lately become active in asserting their right to be heard and considered in the decision-making process not only on the reclamation project but also on other environmental issues. “They have also realized that they have the power to change their officials who are not responsive to their needs and choose those they believe are more sincere to serve them,” he added.