2 weeks Ago By Frencie Carreon
ZAMBOANGA, Philippines – The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has ordered four sardine canning firms in Zamboanga City to stop their operations for at least a week due to alleged violations of environmental laws. The DENR’s Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) in the Zamboanga Peninsula issued cease-and-desist orders on Monday, October 28, against Mega Fishing Corporation, ZC E&L Corporation, Century Pacific Food Incorporated, and Southeast Asian Canning Corporation. These firms are engaged in the production of canned sardines and tuna.
Alex Jimenez, EMB regional director, said the orders, initially effective for seven days, were affirmed by the Pollution Adjudication Board on October 18, in response to alleged violations of the Clean Water Act of 2004. “The violations were identified during a comprehensive environmental compliance audit conducted on all canning industry establishments within Zamboanga City,” the DENR-EMB in the region stated. Environment officials said the facilities of the four firms discharged effluent into the coastal waters of Caragasan to Talisayan, exceeding DENR’s allowable effluent standards.
Effluents, or liquid waste discharged from industrial facilities, often contain chemicals, organic waste, or other pollutants that may require treatment before release to prevent environmental harm, according to a DENR employee who requested anonymity. The DENR-EMB said that, under the orders, the companies “are prohibited from discharging wastewater into water bodies” during the directive’s duration. Environment Secretary Maria Criselda Yulo said the firms need to comply with the cease-and-desist orders.
Executives of the companies have raised concerns over lost income for their workers due to the stoppage. However, the DENR-EMB said work could resume if compliance is met within the initial period from the time the orders were received, and non-compliance could extend the orders to a month or longer until issues are fully resolved. “While the DENR fully recognizes the critical role of the canning industries in promoting food security and economic growth such advancement cannot come at the expense of the environment and public welfare,” said Jimenez.
He said the DENR-EMB in the Zamboanga Peninsula would continue to work closely with the local canning industry and other stakeholders to facilitate compliance, foster responsible environmental stewardship, and ensure sustainable development. – Rappler.com.
