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Rehabilitation Plan of quarry areas should be in the context of the environment, stated Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) 8 Regional Director Leo Van V. Juguan.

This, after sand and gravel concessionaires in Ormoc City committed to rehabilitate their quarry sites in compliance to the order of Ormoc City Mayor Richard Gomez.

“The main purpose of the rehabilitation plan should be to bring back the efficiency of the river. It should be in the direction of water flowing naturally and being replenished in a natural way”, RD Juguan said.

The DENR with its Mines and Geosciences Bureau and the Environmental Management Bureau assured that they will work hand-in-hand with the quarry concessionaires in coming-up with an efficient and effective rehabilitation plan favorable to the environment.

“We will be meeting again, so we can guide you in the preparation of your rehab plan and discuss other concerns relating to your operations and the environment”, RD Juguan added.

Mayor Gomez underscored the necessity of the rehabilitation plan for quarry sites and the Executive Order suspending the exportation of the City’s sand and gravel, which he issued earlier this year.

“Ormoc City is a major source of Class A sand and gravel for the construction sector. Our role in the government is to protect our local rivers and the environment so you can continue your operations”, says Mayor Gomez.   

“The moratorium may be temporary. Our goal is to rehabilitate our resources first, and we will do this together, hand-in-hand”, he adds.

Last week, Mayor Gomez convened the quarry operators in Ormoc, officials of the LGU, DENR Regional Office, PENRO Leyte and CENRO Ormoc, MGB, and EMB to discuss issues and concerns relating to quarry operations in the City, particularly on the alleged illegal extraction of sand and gravel at the Panilahan River.

He gave a stern warning to those operating illegally and vouched to seriously run after these violators and impose charges corresponding to their violations.

Meanwhile, DENR Assistant Regional Director for Technical Services Jose Elmer Bascos reminded the concessionaires to be mindful of the requirements and permits that need to be secured from authorities such as the National Water Resources Board (NWRB) to ensure sustainable use of the country’s environment and natural resources.