DENR: Tree-cutting permit on Quirino Avenue expires

MANILA, Philippines — The permit for tree-cutting and earth-balling along Quirino Avenue in Manila has expired, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources said yesterday.

DENR Assistant Secretary Norlito Eneran said the department has not yet issued an extension or new permit for the tree-cutting activity in Manila.

The probe into the earth-balling activity on Quirino Avenue is set to conclude this week, Eneran said.

“We have talked to the parties involved, including the project proponent, (San Miguel Corp.), and its subcontractor, together with the DENR personnel who monitored the situation,” Eneran told reporters.

DENR Secretary Juan Miguel Cuna earlier said that the proponent voluntarily halted the cutting of trees along Quirino Avenue amid concerns raised by environment groups.

Eneran said the investigation report would be submitted to Cuna for approval next week.