10/03/2009 [ tribune.net.ph ]
Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Lito Atienza yesterday ordered the Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA) to impose a total ban on the repair or reconstruction of fishpens and other structures on the lake that were ruined or submerged at the height of Typhoon "Ondoy."
This, as Atienza expressed frustration over the LLDA’s inability to take control of the lake even after his continued directives.
"I have personally instructed LLDA General Manager Edgar Manda to make sure that destroyed, including submerged fishpens, will not be allowed to be repaired or reconstructed by their operators and owners," Atienza said, adding that Manda has committed to implement his order.
In a memorandum, Atienza directed Manda to impose a total ban on the reconstruction or repair of fishpens either ruined or submerged by Typhoon Ondoy.
Atienza said "nature herself has done the gargantuan work for us in liberating the lake of fishpens and fishcages" so now it is imperative for the LLDA to learn from Typhoon Ondoy’s lessons.
"This is the best time, more than ever, to take advantage of what nature has initiated, reminding us of the consequences brought by abuse on the environment by some influential, powerful and wealthy individuals and groups. Failure to carry out the memorandum would constrain the Department to take administrative action," the DENR chief stressed.
In a memorandum to the LLDA, Atienza also directed the agency to refrain from issuing new permits or renewal of permits for the construction of fishpens and fishcages.
In implementing the order, he told the LLDA’s officials that they can call on any DENR office, the police and the military for assistance.
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