Manila: Albay Governor Noel Rosal has taken decisive action by suspending quarry operations across the province following numerous reports of over-extraction at several quarry sites.
According to Philippines News Agency, Governor Rosal signed Executive Order (EO) No. 21 on Monday night. The order, which will remain effective until November 3, 2025, unless revoked or extended, addresses significant environmental concerns linked to over-extraction. The EO highlights the serious environmental impacts caused by quarrying activities in prohibited areas, such as alterations in river flows, river siltation, flooding, and soil erosion. The recent flooding incident in Barangay Masarawag, Guinobatan, Albay, serves as a stark example of these detrimental effects.
In light of the order, holders of valid quarry permits are permitted to dispose of and utilize stockpiles that existed as of the order's effective date. Governor Rosal has instructed the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) to determine the volume of these stockpiles within seven days of the order's issuance. The disposal and utilization of existing stockpiles will be closely supervised and monitored by the Provincial ENRO, ensuring compliance with all existing regulations.
Governor Rosal has also mandated a comprehensive audit of quarry operations. This audit will involve representatives from PENRO, the Mines and Geosciences Bureau, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Environmental Management Bureau, and the Albay Public Safety and Emergency Management Office. The audit team is tasked with submitting a detailed report on the ecological and geological risks posed by current quarry sites, comprehensive rehabilitation plans, policy reforms for sustainable quarrying, documented violations, and recommendations for addressing these violations.
Quarry operators found conducting operations during the suspension period will face revocation of their permits and a five-year prohibition from obtaining new permits. Additionally, any individual, corporation, or entity engaging in unauthorized quarrying activities will be subject to penalties and prosecution.
