Environmental Groups Oppose Candoni Mountain Clearing

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By Dolly Yasa

BACOLOD CITY—Environmental groups in southern Negros are urging government agencies to stop the continued clearing of the Candoni mountains in Negros Occidental, reportedly for a palm oil plantation.

The palm oil plantation is a project of the Hinoba-an Asia Plantation Inc. (HAPI).

The Group of Environmental Socialists (GOES) Inc., Green Alert Network (GAN), Negros Island Region Inc., and Gatuslao Agroforestry Banana Sugarcane and Coconut Farmers Association (GABASCFA) expressed deep concern over the ongoing clearing of the mountains in Candoni, according to a statement sent to Daily Guardian on Friday.

Despite receiving confirmation from the Environmental Management Bureau that the project does not have an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC), operations have continued, the statement added.

“We find it unacceptable that the local government of Candoni, under Mayor Ray Ruiz, and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) have not taken any action to stop the illegal activities in our community,” the groups stated.

They claimed the lack of response and accountability from the authorities reflects a significant discrepancy.

“These operations are not only detrimental to the environment but also impact the daily lives and livelihoods of the residents,” the statement said.

Ariel de la Cruz, coordinator of GOES Inc., said GOES and GAN will send a demand letter to the DENR national and regional offices, requesting a cease-and-desist order (CDO) against the project.

Disney Marie Espartero, GAN coordinator, emphasized the need for a CDO, as the project lacks the necessary documents.

“We will also send a follow-up letter to the Candoni local government, as they have yet to respond to our inquiry regarding whether the ongoing operations of Hinoba-an Asia Plantation Inc. have the required documents.”

The groups called on concerned government agencies to intervene immediately and halt the project.

“We urge them to enforce environmental laws to protect our natural resources and the well-being of the community.”

If no action is taken, GOES Inc., GAN, and GABASCFA said they would explore all avenues to hold the responsible parties accountable.

“We will not stand idly by while our environment is being destroyed for profit.”

The groups also urged the public to support their efforts and stand with the affected communities in the fight to preserve and protect the mountains, forests, and the future.