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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider DILG to follow DENR's lead in Masungi row

DILG to follow DENR's lead in Masungi row

Published Sep 23, 2022 02:58 pm

Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. stressed Friday, Sept. 23, that the department will act with prudence and wait for the advice of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) before making any move with regards to the Masungi Georeserve fiasco in Tanay, Rizal.

DILG

“We can’t just act, as we could be charged in court. I am also warning the security agency that they can’t just enter any place as they need to get a permit from the chief of the police,” Abalos told reporters during his visit to the protected area.

Abalos together with the officials of the DENR and Philippine National Police (PNP) visited the Masungi Georeserve in the wake of the row between the protected area’s caretakers and the Sinagtala security agency.

On Sept. 17, the Rizal police responded to a complaint that 30 armed men encamped in the vicinity of the Masungi Georeserve with the attempt to occupy a huge portion of the land inside the protected area.

The personnel of the Sinagtala Security Agency claimed they have a survey plan under the name of one Beatriz Sonquipal that was reportedly issued by the DENR regional office in the early 2000s.

But the opposing group insisted that the survey plan is not a proof of ownership.

Abalos said they already sent a letter to the Sinagtala Security Agency, which employs the security personnel who allegedly encamped within the area's vicinity, to get its side on the issue.

“The police is here to make sure there is peace and order. The DENR is here to give us direction and of course, members of the media are here to give attention to what really is happening here. Thus, no one should illegally occupy this area. Let's help one another,” Abalos said.

The PNP will implement a sustained police presence at the Masungi Georeserve, PNP chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr. assured.

Azurin added that an investigation is being conducted to uncover the possible violations of those responsible for the alleged deployment of the armed men.

The probe also includes the alleged harassment and assault on one of Masungi Georeserve’s caretakers.

The Masungi Georeserve was declared a protected area in 2011 under Proclamation No. 296 but a number of settlements were put up, including houses and resorts.

There were reports that stated that some individuals and groups are interested in the area due to its mining potential.

Located around 47 kilometers east of Metro Manila, the Masungi Georeserve is a conservation area and is known for its rustic rock garden that is part of the Upper Marikina River Basin Protected Landscape (UMRBPL) in Rizal province.

Covering 26,126 hectares, the UMRBPL in Rizal province is vital in regulating the flow of water towards Metro Manila.

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DENR DILG Benhur Abalos
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