Barangay Council Seeks Halt to Oriental Mindoro Dredging Project Over Environmental Concerns

BACO, Oriental Mindoro — The barangay council of Pulang Tubig in the Oriental Mindoro town of Buco had formally asked for the immediate suspension of the proposed Alag River Restoration and Dredging Project, including its coastal and marine components, citing serious gaps in the environmental review process and local legal requirements, the Inquirer learned on "We are asking for the immediate suspension of the project for the protection of our environment and for the sake of our constituents," said Pulang Tubig village chief Rolando E. Mendoza. He said the council passed Resolution No. 2024-15 on March 25, "requesting the immediate suspension of the Alag River Restoration and Dredging Project, including its coastal and marine components, from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and other concerned government agencies." Mendoza said the resolution was passed after the council learned that the project had been ongoing without proper consultation with the local government unit and the affected communities. He added that the barangay council also cited the alleged lack of a comprehensive environmental impact assessment (EIA) and the failure to secure necessary permits and clearances from relevant government agencies. "We are not against development, but we want to ensure that it is done responsibly and sustainably, with full respect for our environment and the rights of our people," Mendoza said. The Alag River Restoration and Dredging Project is part of the government's efforts to address the worsening environmental conditions in the province, particularly the siltation and pollution of rivers and coastal areas. However, environmental groups and local communities have often raised concerns about the potential negative impacts of such projects, including the destruction of marine habitats, displacement of communities, and the exacerbation of coastal erosion. The DENR has yet to respond to the barangay council's request for suspension. The Inquirer is awaiting a statement from the agency.