Manila: The Environmental Management Bureau in Northern Mindanao (EMB-10) has suspended the operation of 17 poultry farms in Misamis Oriental due to public health hazards and environmental concerns. In an interview Wednesday, EMB-10 Director Reynaldo Digamo explained that the omnibus order for poultry farms in Alubijid municipality was a response to residents' complaints about fly infestations caused by their operations.
According to Philippines News Agency, this move marks the beginning of a broader initiative to address similar issues throughout Region 10. EMB-10 Director Digamo emphasized that other municipalities in the region, which host poultry projects and experience comparable problems, will soon encounter the same level of regulatory scrutiny. The agency's proactive approach aims to safeguard public health and mitigate environmental impact across the entire region.
The order also recommends that the Alubijid town government suspend the business permits of the affected farms. This recommendation underscores the urgency and seriousness of the situation, as it seeks to halt operations until sustainable solutions are implemented. The EMB-10's actions reflect a commitment to enforcing regulations that prioritize community welfare and environmental preservation.
Furthermore, the EMB-10 has urged the local government to collaborate with them in organizing a technical conference with poultry operators. The goal of this conference is to develop a comprehensive and sustainable solution to the ongoing crisis, ensuring that similar issues do not arise in the future. This collaborative approach highlights the importance of stakeholder engagement in addressing complex environmental challenges.
The order was served on Wednesday by lawyer Alvimar Decampong, chief of EMB-10 legal unit, and received by Alubijid Mayor Emanuel Jamis. This formal handover signifies a crucial step in the enforcement process, as local authorities are now expected to take decisive action in line with the EMB-10's directives. The involvement of legal and municipal leaders further reinforces the seriousness of the issue and the collective efforts required to resolve it.
