Abaday: Contractors, DPWH must replace trees affected by infra projects

“WHILE the need for infrastructure development is clear, we must ensure that progress is balanced with our responsibilities toward environmental stewardship.”

This was emphasized by Councilor Roger G. Abaday in his special report, during the 97th regular session of the 20th City Council presided over by Vice Mayor Bebot Rodriguez, in the wake of massive tree cutting along Macapagal Drive and Masterson Avenue due to ongoing road widening and drainage projects of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in the said area.

Abaday bared that a permit was issued on May 16, 2024, stating that 290 trees would be affected by the project spanning from Pryce Plaza Junction to Southern Philippines Union Conference and leading near Zone 1, Balulang Junction, but the contractors and DPWH should be responsible and accountable for the cutting and replacement of trees.

“Are they fully aware of their obligations concerning tree cutting?” asked Abaday, citing Department Order 238, s. 2022, which highlights the need for environmental sustainability through a tree replacement program.

He also pointed out that contractors are required to undertake mandatory tree planting as part of their project obligations under Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Administrative Order 2020-06.

“For every tree cut, 100 trees or saplings must be planted within or along the road right-of-way of DPWH-administered infrastructure projects,” Abaday stressed.

“This should be incorporated in the program of works for flood control projects,” he added.

He further cited the National Greening Program (NGP) initiated in 2011 to restore 1.5 million hectares of forested land by planting 1.5 billion trees, and that the city should take part in this.

Being the chair of the Committee on Environment, Abaday referred his concern to his own committee and Councilor Edgar G. Cabanlas’ Committee on Public Works for study together with the DENR, City Local Environment and Natural Resources Office, Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office, and the Department of Social Welfare and Development if the contractors and DPWH have adhered to the guidelines set forth by national laws and governing bodies.