Binay: Trash barges not leaking

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority denied reports yesterday about leakage of leachate into the waters of Semirara Island from a barge full of garbage.

MMDA chairman Jejomar Binay said the alleged spillage was actually just water displacement normal in any type of vessel. Two barges of R-II DMCI arrived and docked near the shore of the island of Semirara, Antique yesterday from Pier 18 in Manila.

MMDA assistant general manager for operations Rogelio Uranza reported that an estimated 200 residents of Antique were present during the arrival and stood watch.

The barges containing 3,334 metric tons of garbage, are waiting for the 20-day temporary restraining order (TRO) issued by the Antique Court to lapse. However, it was found that the garbage is uncovered and exposed to the elements. Residents feared that water contamination and air pollution will affect them while the barge is docked at the Semirara wharf.

The two barges arrived three hours apart. Zocino Capilastique of the Semirara Coast Guard confirmed that the garbage carried by the barges is exposed to the wind and might result in contamination of wind and water. "After they anchored at the wharf, we could smell the foul stench of the garbage," he said.

Reports arrived at the office of Binay that some kind of leakage was sighted from the barge docked at the island yesterday. Uranza explained that the "leakage" was actually water and not leachate as claimed by the report. He noted that this is normal as vessels take in water during their voyage and discharge it along the way or while docked at a wharf.

Uranza added that it is impossible to relate the liquid seen from the barge as leachate as it takes three to six months before the toxic substance comes out of the garbage. The people surrounding the island represent a united group of Antiqueños against the dumping of garbage in their province.

The group has managed to secure a temporary restraining order from the Regional Trial Court of Antique against the project of R-II DMCI.

DMCI has an abandoned mining area on the island which it operated several years ago under the name of Semirara Coal Corporation. Semirara Coal Corporation has along been bankrupt and has sought financial relief from the government.

DMCI, which holds a majority stake in Semirara Coal, explained that the current firm named R-II DMCI represents a completely different entity.

The MMDA and the office of Flagship Programs and Projects Secretary Roberto Aventajado has expressed confidence about the project of R-II DMCI particularly its benefits not only for Metro Manila but also for the province of Antique.

On top of this, it was revealed that the Semirara landfill was also offered to the province of Antique for dumping its garbage together with those of Metro Manila.

Reports have indicated that most towns of the province are using open dumpsites which is unacceptable under current environmental laws.

The proponent has indicated that the 20-hectare site is more than capable of handling Metro Manila’s garbage during the two year interim period set by the government.