CAPIZ — Executive Order No. 27 issued by Governor Fredenil H. Castro, which suspends all new and renewal applications for mountain quarry operations in the province, remains in effect as the provincial government moves to review existing quarry policies.
The continued suspension reflects the administration’s commitment to protecting the province’s ecological balance and ensuring the safety and welfare of its residents.
In a local radio interview, Capiz Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (CaPENRO) head Ronald Cullo said the executive order has not yet been lifted as the governor has ordered a comprehensive review of current policies governing quarry operations.
Cullo said the review aims to strengthen public participation, particularly in monitoring quarry activities that may affect the environment and surrounding communities.
He added that Gov. Castro is keen on improving enforcement mechanisms, including enhancing the “feedback mechanism” involving barangay monitoring teams, which play a key role in ensuring that quarry operations comply with environmental standards.
As part of direct oversight, the governor also plans to visit several mountain quarry sites across the province to personally assess compliance with regulations and evaluate the impact of operations on local ecosystems.
At present, there are 25 active permittees conducting quarry operations in Capiz, raising concerns over possible adverse effects on fragile landscapes and vulnerable communities.
Executive Order No. 27 was issued in response to environmental challenges brought about by heavy rainfall and severe flooding caused by consecutive typhoons that recently hit the province and displaced many households.
By suspending quarry applications, the provincial government seeks to protect natural resources and prioritize public safety.
“The preservation of our environment must be integral to our governance strategies,” Castro said. “The detrimental impacts of quarrying activities can significantly worsen the conditions of our already vulnerable landscapes, especially after the extreme weather events we have experienced. This suspension aims to safeguard our natural resources while upholding the rights and welfare of our citizens,” he added.
The executive order cites Section 16, Article II of the 1987 Philippine Constitution, which mandates the State to protect and advance the right of the people to a balanced and healthful ecology.
It also invokes provisions of the Local Government Code of 1991 (Republic Act 7160), granting local government units the authority to act in the interest of public welfare, as well as the Philippine Mining Act of 1995 (Republic Act 7942), which recognizes mineral resources as assets under State stewardship to be responsibly managed for future generations./PN
