DENR told: File raps vs violators of environmental laws in Marikina Watershed

MANILA, Philippines — File charges against violators of environmental laws in the Marikina Watershed, Malacañang told the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) on Tuesday.

The Palace’s remark came after environmentalists appealed to President Rodrigo Duterte and the DENR to cancel quarrying agreements in the Upper Marikina Watershed.

READ: Still no gov’t protection for Marikina watershed guards

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“We therefore express concern on reports of alleged development activities, which include resort expansion, in the Marikina Watershed,” acting presidential spokesperson Martin Andanar said in a statement.

READ: Alarm raised over illegal ‘resort,’ activities in Rizal watershed

“We urge the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Anti-Illegal Logging Task Force to look into the matter and file the necessary charges against violators of environmental laws,” he added.

The environmentalists likewise called on to prioritize the wellbeing of millions of individuals over the interests of a few.

They added that conservation of the environment must proceed.

According to Andanar, “safeguarding the environment and natural resources is an important component in our sustainable development.”

READ: Recovering and developing with nature