Illegal dumps in Aklan, Iloilo probed

MANILA, Philippines – The office of the environmental ombudsman is conducting an investigation into illegal dumps in Iloilo and Aklan.

Officials of the local governments of Banate Ajuy, Sara, Sta. Barbara and Concepcion towns in Iloilo and Nabas in Aklan attended hearings in Iloilo City from Sept. 6 to 9.

Deputy Ombudsman for Luzon and environmental ombudsman team head Gerard Mosquera said the fact-finding inquiry is part of the campaign to ensure compliance with Republic Act 9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000.

Three open dumps in Hindang and Bato in Leyte and Catarman in Northern Samar were closed in May.

The environmental ombudsman team said it would monitor post-closure activities to ensure that the provisions of RA 9003 and other environmental laws are implemented.

The team is tasked to investigate complaints filed against environmental protection officials and employees and recommend penalties and the filing of charges.