Quezon town execs seek halt to quarrying

MANILA, Philippines — The municipal government of Infanta in Quezon is seeking the immediate suspension of all quarrying activities along the Agos River, citing serious threats to the environment and public safety as well as to the livelihood of the people.

Local officials are pushing for the implementation of a comprehensive master dredging project to permanently address the issue.

In a resolution passed on Dec. 22, the Sangguniang Bayan asked the Provincial Mining Regulatory Board (PMRB)-Calabarzon to stop  all quarrying activities in the area, pending review of compliance with environmental and safety laws.

Earlier, Infanta Mayor Lord Arnel Ruanto urged the municipal council to raise the issue before the PMRB, which has the authority to regulate quarry operations.

The council said that the Agos River is a primary source of water and livelihood not only for Infanta, but also for neighboring towns.

Council members warned that the uncontrolled or excessive quarrying activities could lead to the degradation of the river, soil erosion, flooding and damage to infrastructure and agricultural lands, particularly during heavy rainfall.