MAYOR Mauricio Domogan has asked the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) for a definite stand on the proposed treasure hunting at the Baguio Convention Center (BCC).
Domogan said the initial answer of the agency does not prohibit or allow the activity at the city-owned site and has asked for clarification.
He said treasure hunter, Eliseo Cabusao Jr. has reiterated he will comply with findings by the government agencies but lamented a decision has made without an inspection as earlier agreed.
Domogan said the DPWH has to clarify the stand they have given to guide the city as well as Cabusao on what to do.
Earlier, Domogan said that although Cabusao has a permit from the National Museum and the go signal from the local council to proceed with his treasure hunt, the safety of the BCC will have to be considered.
Domogan said the DPWH has given its definite findings on the stability as well as the viability of continuing with the proposed treasure hunt while rehabilitation work at the BCC is ongoing.
The chief executive said in the wake of the rehabilitation of the BCC, its structural integrity should be taken into consideration, adding if indeed it will affect the structure, Cabusao has to state how he will deal with the problem and if it will be remedied within the one-year-period of the work allotted for the center.
Cabusao believes the fabled Yamashita treasure is at the area of the BCC.
A sharing scheme has been crafted for the city - 35 percent going to the city; 30 percent to the national government through the National Museum and the remaining will go to Cabusao.
Cabusao is the lone treasure hunter who has acquired a permit from the National Museum carrying with him a Treasure Hunting and Disposition of Recovered Treasures Permit which supersedes local laws.
Domogan said a meeting with the DPWH and City Buildings and Architecture Office is slated to discuss the matter.
