Suprea asserts compliance amid complaints

CEBU, Philippines — Suprea Phils. Development Corp., the operator of a batching plant in Barangay Labogon, Mandaue City, has reaffirmed its adherence to government regulations, asserting that it has taken proactive measures to address community concerns.

In a statement, the company’s management maintained that there is no basis for the facility’s closure, emphasizing its full compliance with regulatory requirements.

According to Suprea, it has “always” addressed concerns raised by complainants by implementing scientific and technical monitoring as part of its compliance with its Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC).

The batching plant further claimed that it has taken additional steps, such as installing four upgraded cement silos with improvised air filters, to minimize environmental impact.

“With this development, the plant can increase its stock capacity and reduce the frequency of deliveries. As a result, dust pollution is minimized, and traffic congestion in the area is alleviated,” Suprea stated.

To further mitigate environmental concerns, the company said it conducts daily dust suppression measures, including watering the entire facility using recycled water. Additionally, third-party noise and dust tests accredited by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) are regularly conducted.

These results, Suprea noted, are submitted to the DENR by its Pollution Control Officer (PCO) as part of its Self-Monitoring Report or Compliance Monitoring Report at the end of each quarter.

“We pass tests conducted by the government, and our compliance is evidenced by the permits and licenses issued to us,” reads a portion of the statement released by Suprea.

The management also acknowledged instances when Barangay Labogon officials called them for discussions regarding complaints.

“We come and present our mitigating measures,” Suprea stated, adding that all necessary permits are up to date and any issues related to their operations have been resolved. The company further revealed that a resolution had been approved, granting it a valid barangay permit to operate in the area.

Although the area is classified as an industrial zone, Suprea stated that it has still secured locational clearance.

“We have adopted mitigating measures in response to the complaints lodged by residents. We are a fully compliant industrial establishment operating in an industrial area,” the statement read.

Suprea also pointed out that it has implemented protective measures for the community, including reconstructing a higher concrete wall, which was approved by the Office of the Building Official (OBO). Additionally, the company stated that it has increased tree planting efforts, acquired a 7-meter silent-type heavy equipment loader, and continues its daily watering protocol using recycled water.

“Again, we take it from the tests that we are regularly subjected to. We are always found to be within standard,” Suprea added.

However, the company’s assertions were met with strong opposition from residents, particularly Ines Corbo Necesario and other complainants from Barangay Labogon, who held a press conference on Friday, February 7, 2025.

Necesario stated that the plant’s operations negatively impact their daily lives, citing dust, noise, and health risks.

She also accused former Mandaue City mayor Jonas Cortes of neglecting his responsibilities in addressing their concerns.

According to Necesario, in September 2019, they participated in a technical conference with Cortes and other city officials to present the situation caused by the batching plant’s operations.

She recounted that Cortes had assured them that he would help resolve the issue, leading them to believe that action would be taken. However, she claimed that a few months later, the batching plant continued its operations uninterrupted.

Dismayed by the lack of response from the city government, Necesario and other residents filed a case on October 17, 2022, which eventually resulted in the dismissal of Cortes.

Necesario further alleged that Cortes prioritized the interests of the batching plant’s owner over the welfare of the residents.           

Call for cease-and-desist order

Now, the petitioners are calling on incumbent Mandaue City Mayor Glenn Bercede to issue an immediate cease-and-desist order against the batching plant. They argue that the facility was allowed to operate continuously under Cortes’ administration despite persistent complaints from affected residents.

As the dispute continues, Suprea maintains its stance that it complies with all regulatory requirements and will continue implementing mitigating measures to address community concerns.   FPL (CEBU NEWS)