Group now wants DENR to cut acacias

CEBU, Philippines -  A group that opposed the cutting of century-old acacias in southern Cebu has “switched” sides, this time saying that a few of the trees should be cut down due to road hazard.

The Movement for Livable Cebu has suggested to the Department of Public Works and Highways-7 and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-7 that they cut five trees along the national highway from the City of Naga to Carcar City.

In a letter to DPWH-7 and DENR-7, Macaraig Canton, MLC lead convenor,  said the five trees encroached into the road they pose “extreme road hazards.”

The trees, Canton said, are almost invisible at night vehicles could crash into them at any time, especially when drivers are distracted.

He said four of the trees are actually on the road while a fifth one is leaning towards the road, making the space for vehicles narrower.

“We therefore strongly suggest that these trees be removed from the road as soon as possible because of the high risk to motorists. We did not see any other tree on the way that represents the same level of hazard,” Canton said.

Meanwhile, the province is eyeing to request DENR to consider again Cebu Governor Hilario Davide’s request for the cutting of acacia trees to proceed “on the basis of risks and hazards.”

This after the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office learned that DENR issued a special permit for the cutting of trees inside Naga Central School.

Cutting of trees in Naga that DENR to be “sickly” had been halted after Secretary Ramon Paje recalled the special permit following continued protest by environmentalists.

 “Kung tinuod gyod nga naa niy permit ang sa Naga (school), ako sab i-follow up among request for the lifting sa suspension,” said lawyer Chad Estella, PENRO chief. — (FREEMAN)