The Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB) fined the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) ₱50,000 for constructing the Cogon-Cota na Daco-Balud Del Norte Sur Coastal Road without an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC).

According to Save Gubat Bay Movement (SGBM), this victory was achieved through the continuous campaign of fisherfolk, residents, and allies.

However, the construction of the project continues. The project will damage the livelihood and natural resources along the coastline of at least 13 barangays in Gubat.

Together with progressive parties under the Makabayan bloc, SGBM is calling on the Lower House to investigate into the ongoing construction of the coastal road and its impact on the environment and the livelihood of the people.

At present, DPWH continues to expand the Abuyog-Gubat-Ariman road even though it has not presented an ECC or other official project documents to affected residents. It also failed to conduct genuine consultations with the people and has no permit to cut down old trees in areas designated as watersheds for low-lying communities such as Gubat and Prieto Diaz.

The Sorsogon Coastal Road Project is managed by DPWH and forms part of the Build Build Build program of the previous Duterte administration.