THE Apo Land and Quarry Corporation (ALQC) formally launched the start of its hazard reduction program at the landslide affected area in Barangay Tina-an, City of Naga, by gathering affected landslide victims in a community prayer at Ground Zero today, November 29.

Dubbed as “Padayon Naga,” the event aims to not only gather the affected landslide victims to pray for the dead and their families but also to kick off the ALQC’s plan to clear the landslide affected areas of Sindulan and Tagaytay of dangerous debris.

Before the kickoff, a mass was held at Ground Zero with affected landslide victims at 9:30 a.m.

In his homily, Fr. Mario Atienza asked affected landslide victims to begin the process of healing their lives following the deadly landslide more than three months ago.

“Let us learn from the event that occurred in the course of time. Like it or not, that event (landslide) is already part of our history. We must learn from that event,” Atienza said.

Atienza also reminded concerned sectors such as ALQC and the city government of Naga to reflect on the landslide by promoting programs that aims to protect the natural environment.

He reminded concerned sectors that bad decisions will always lead to bad consequences.

“If you plant wind, then you will reap storms,” Atienza reminded the concerned sectors.

In a speech after the mass, City of Naga Mayor Kristine Vanessa Chiong said with the approval of the hazard reduction plan, ALQC can finally start clearing the debris and damage brought about by the landslide that could cause danger to others. (JKV)