[ Manila Bulletin Online ] January 16, 2009
Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Secretary Lito Atienza directed yesterday officials of the DENR and the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) that no tree should be cut in the construction of the $ 120-million Ocean 9 Casino and Hotel in Subic Bay Freeport Zone.
He told the project proponent, Grand Utopia, to redesign the structure to accommodate the trees in the area.
"We have seen the site and obviously, there are mature trees, saplings and young trees, but no century-old trees. It is imperative that we protect the trees. So instead of cutting or relocating the mature trees, it is better to adjust the design to incorporate them. It is much cheaper to redesign than justify the cutting of the trees,’’ he said.
Atienza was in Subic last Wednesday to inspect the project site in an effort to avoid misunderstanding and misconception about the controversial project that has stirred a series of protests by environmentalists.
Earlier, Atienza revoked a memorandum of agreement which delegated to SBMA the authority to issue environmental compliance certificates (ECCs) and other environmental permits to locators in SBFZ.
"We have taken over the responsibility (of issuing ECC). The DENR will make sure that every single tree, every forest in Subic and its environment are protected.’’
He assured, however, the Koreans and prospective investors in Subic and in other parts of the country that the government is not against foreign investments. "The government welcomes investments. It is what the economy needs. But we have to put things in proper perspective and ensure that the environment is protected and investors must follow the law,’’ Atienza said.