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Thursday, November 27, 2003
No acacia tree cutting in Mabalacat: DENR
By Rhay G. Navales
MABALACAT, Pamp. -- Finally, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has decided on the controversial issue regarding the proposed cutting of some 27 acacia trees along the MacArthur Highway in Barangay Mabiga here.
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) requested the DENR last July 23 to issue a special permit on the planned cutting of the trees to pave the way for the construction of the said bridge and the widening of the road.
In a resolution dated Nov. 20, 2003, DENR regional executive director Regidor M. de Leon stated that no unnecessary cutting of any tree may be made along the MacArthur Highway in Barangay Mabiga, this town.
"Subject trees which are verdantly towering the highway in Barangay Mabiga must be preserved and protected to enhance the environment and ecological stability which have been part of Pampanga's natural heritage," de Leon stated in the DENR resolution.
However, the DENR allowed the DPWH to cut the dead trees still standing along the road, which are detrimental to public safety and health.
Earlier, the Regional Development Council-Sectoral Committee on Economic Development (RDC-SCED) ordered the DPWH to preserve the 27 acacia trees in question.
In Resolution No. 03-23-2003 dated Oct.21, 2003, the RDC-SCED enjoins the DPWH to implement zero uprooting and cutting of trees along the MacArthur Highway in Mabalacat, Pampanga.
The resolution stated that the widening of Mabiga Bridge and road funded by the Clark Area Municipality Development Project (CAMP) can be patterned after the San Fernando-Angeles road section where no trees were cut during its widening.
It was further said that the cutting of trees along the national road in Mabalacat is perceived to be inimical to the environment and health of the residents and commuters plying the road.
"The San Fernando-Angeles road with acacia trees on both sides similar to Mabiga road did not create traffic problems nor danger to motorists," the resolution added.
The RDC-SCED, however, allows the trimming of the trees and urged the DPWH to initiate subsequent maintenance.
Various environmental and civic organizations earlier opposed the planned cutting of the trees saying, through a manifesto, that it will deprive the people of their right to a sound environment.
(November 27, 2003 issue)
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