Decades-old QC trees saved from DPWH ax

Acting Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Joemari Gerochi has moved to save at the last minute, 91 decade-old mahogany trees and Taraw palms along Quezon Avenue from being cut by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

In a letter to DPWH Secretary Simeon Datumanong dated Feb. 20, Gerochi asked the DPWH chief to strictly comply with the new conditions of the tree cutting and balling permit issued by the DENR.

The DPWH is presently constructing the EDSA-Quezon Avenue interchange intended to decongest traffic in the area.

Gerochi asked Datumanong to spare 91 mahogany trees from being cut as well as 30 Taraw palms, which the DPWH promised to "ball instead" during the technical conference conducted by the DENR and the DPWH officials.

Former DENR Secretary Antonio Cerilles had approved the cutting of at least 185 small trees and 77 mahogany trees; while 237 would be balled and replanted.

Gerochi said with the design revision and the agreement reached between the DENR and the DPWH, 77 mahogany trees will be retained by providing a center island. Also spared from cutting, according to Gerochi, were 14 big mahogany trees located along Agham Road.

"Only seven more Taraw palms which cannot be avoided shall be cut. All the remaining trees covered by the aforementioned permit shall instead be balled and replanted by the contractors," Gerochi said.

Gerochi said that the DENR National Capital Region (NCR) has designated the Bantayog ng mga Bayani shrine as planting site. He said arrangements are being made with non-government organizations for replanting excess trees at La Mesa Dam. – Jose Rodel Clapano