Gwen suspends quarry operations in Naga

Local

CEBU Governor Gwendolyn Garcia has ordered a 30-day suspension of all quarry operations within Mineral Production and Sharing Agreement (MPSA) zones in the City of Naga, southern Cebu.

The suspension, formalized under Executive Order (EO) No. 22, will allow for an environmental review, a thorough risk assessment, and an evaluation of the area's capacity to sustain such activities.

Apo Land and Quarry Corporation (ALQC), a supplier of limestone, clay, and greywacke to CEMEX Philippines, is among those affected by the order.

Speaking at a public event on December 2, Garcia vowed to prioritize the safety of residents near the quarry sites, even if it means facing legal disputes.

She cited the devastating landslide in Barangay Tinaan in 2018, which claimed 77 lives and forced thousands from their homes, as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by inadequate safety measures in quarrying operations.

The MPSA zones under the suspension include areas in Barangays Tinaan and Pangdan. These agreements, governed by the Philippine Mining Act of 1995, permit resource extraction under strict environmental and safety guidelines.

However, the provincial government found that the company's ongoing activities posed risks to public safety, prompting Garcia’s directive.

She stressed the urgency of safeguarding the approximately 10,000 to 12,000 residents living near the affected areas, warning that neglecting to act could result in further tragedies. Garcia reiterated her commitment to prioritizing public welfare and environmental preservation over commercial interests.

The governor tasked the City Government of Naga, the Philippine National Police, and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to ensure the strict enforcement of the suspension.

Officials from DENR Central Visayas, along with representatives from the Mines and Geosciences Bureau Central Visayas, Environmental Management Bureau Central Visayas, ALQC, and CEMEX Philippines, held a meeting with Garcia to discuss the order.

Garcia also directed ALQC to fully participate in the environmental audit and risk assessment. She emphasized that quarry operations can only resume once safety standards are assured, as the lives and well-being of residents must remain the top priority.

The audit results will determine if the affected areas are suitable for future quarrying activities.(MyTVCebu)