By Nimfa Estrellado Mayor Maria Lourdes "Lovely" Reynoso-Pontioso addresses the Tayabas community in a Facebook video, expressing ...
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| Mayor Maria Lourdes "Lovely" Reynoso-Pontioso addresses the Tayabas community in a Facebook video, expressing their strong opposition to quarrying activities. (screengrab from the mayor's video here at CICRO Tayabas/FB) |
TAYABAS CITY, Quezon - Tayabas City Mayor Maria Lourdes "Lovely" Reynoso-Pontioso is taking a stand against proposed quarrying operations in the barangays of Alitao, Pipilan, and Lalo. In a Facebook post on October 29, 2024, the mayor shared a video statement outlining her commitment to protecting the city's natural resources and highlighting the potential damage quarrying could inflict on the local ecosystem.
"I am strongly opposed to any kind of quarrying that may damage the nature and the future of our communities," Mayor Pontioso stated. "Tayabas is a city full of natural resources and livelihoods that are important to each of us. Now, more than ever, it is crucial to prioritize the preservation of our natural environment."
This follows proposed quarrying operations in the area, raising concerns about deforestation, water contamination, and habitat destruction. "The environmental risks are undeniable," says Jay Lim, project officer of Tanggol Kalikasan (TK), a Quezon environmental group. "We're talking about the potential loss of forest cover, the degradation of vital watersheds, and the disruption of fragile ecosystems."
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources has documented the detrimental effects of quarrying activities, including soil erosion, landslides, and threats to biodiversity. These environmental risks could jeopardize the livelihoods of Tayabas farmers and the city's food security. "Quarrying operations often prioritize short-term profits over long-term sustainability," Lim adds. "The impact on agriculture and local food sources can be devastating."
Water contamination from sediment and heavy metals poses a serious threat to both human health and aquatic life. "Protecting our water resources is non-negotiable," Lim emphasizes. "Contamination from quarrying can have far-reaching consequences for public health and the environment."
Mayor Pontioso has refused to grant permits for the proposed projects, stating, "I will not allow or sign a Business Permit for any proponent seeking to operate in the Barangays of Alitao, Pipilan, and Lalo."
"We believe that the protection of Tayabas' natural heritage is paramount," Lim stated. "Quarrying poses a significant threat to our water resources, biodiversity, and the overall health of our environment."
Despite the mayor's stance, residents are calling on the Provincial Government of Quezon and Governor Angelina "Doktora Helen" Tan to intervene. They hope the Provincial Mining Regulatory Board (PMRB) will revoke the permits granted to the quarry operators.
Mayor Pontioso has also requested the City Council to pass an ordinance that would further regulate quarrying activities in Tayabas. "I promise you that I will remain firm in our goals for a more prosperous, safe, and orderly Tayabas," she stated. "Let's together promote our dream for a vibrant Tayabas."
This local action sets a precedent for environmental protection in the Philippines, demonstrating the impact of community engagement and proactive leadership. However, the conflict between local concerns and provincial permits highlights the ongoing challenges in balancing economic development with environmental preservation.
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