SC throws writ of kalikasan plea vs SMC’s airport project in Bulacan

MANILA, Philippines — The Supreme Court has dismissed the writ of kalikasan petition against San Miguel Corp.’s plan to construct the New Manila International Airport, known as the Aerocity Airport Project, on a 2,500-hectare foreshore area in Bulakan town in Bulacan province.

A Writ of Kalikasan is a legal remedy for the protection of one’s right to “a balanced and healthful ecology in accord with the rhythm and harmony of nature,” under Section 16, Article II of the Constitution.

In dismissing the petition filed by conservation organization Oceana, Chief Justice Diosdado Peralta said it was “not sufficient in form and substance.”

No further details were given by the high court regarding its decision.

Oceana asserted in its plea that the airport project runs against environmental laws as the site has been classified as forestland and permanent forestland by the National Mapping and Resource Information Authority.

The group said the airport project area as well as the Airport City Area cover forest and permanent forest land that are not alienable and disposable, thus, violate Republic Act 4701 or An Act  Declaring a Portion of the Foreshore Fronting Manila Bay Along with the Province of Bulacan as Bulacan Fishing Reservation.

At the same time, Oceana alleged that portions of the areas covering the project are classified as public forest and fishery reserves and, thus, inalienable.

Petitioners added that the construction would also adversely affect the migratory bird population, and increase risks to climate change impacts that would devastate the marine habitat.

KGA