New LGU officials asked to prioritize environmental laws

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is calling on newly elected officials of local government units (LGUs) to prioritize the implementation of environmental laws, particularly on solid waste management.

Environment Secretary Roy Cimatu told city and municipal mayors that they have a duty under the Ecological Solid Waste Management law, which holds the LGUs primarily responsible for waste segregation and disposal.

Cimatu said the DENR is also counting on LGUs on the implementation of the Clean Air and Clean Water laws.

At the same time, he called on the officials within the Manila Bay region to cooperate with the DENR-led interagency task force in charge of its rehabilitation.

DENR Undersecretary for solid waste management and LGU concerns Benny Antiporda warned that local officials found violating the provisions of the law could be held administratively and criminally liable.

Antiporda told the newly elected officials to report any violation of the law, particularly the operation of open dumpsites in their localities.

“By doing so, these officials will send the right signal early on in their administration and that is they do not tolerate any wrongdoing,” Antiporda said.

He added that failure on the part of the newly elected officials to act or report any irregularities committed by their predecessors would be probed.

“We will go after both newly elected and outgoing local officials who violated environmental laws. Violators could face a jail term of up to three years,” he said.

Last week, the DENR issued a cease and desist order against the municipal government of Limay in Bataan for operating an open dumpsite right beside a creek flowing to Mamala River, which drains into Manila Bay.

The DENR ordered Limay officials to stop the operation of the dumpsite and conduct immediate rehabilitation of the area.