Bulacan gov't backs SC's Writ of Kalikasan vs quarrying in Angat River watershed
Bulacan Governor Daniel R. Fernando has expressed full support for the Supreme Court’s issuance of a Writ of Kalikasan and a Temporary Environmental Protection Order (TEPO) against quarrying operations in the Angat River–Bustos Dam Watershed.
In a statement released Sunday by the Provincial Public Affairs Office (PPAO), Fernando said that while the provincial government has yet to receive an official copy of the order, its position remains firm: environmental preservation is a priority under Bulacan’s People’s Agenda 10.
“There is no room in the Province of Bulacan for any illegal activity that will destroy our nature and endanger the welfare of our people,” Fernando stressed.
“The Angat River–Bustos Dam Watershed is not just natural resources -- it is water, life, livelihood, and the future of our people.”
The governor directed the Bulacan Environment and Natural Resources Office (BENRO) to conduct a prompt, thorough, and impartial review of all related activities.
He also assured full cooperation with any investigation by concerned agencies.
Pending receipt of the official order against the quarrying of Halrey Construction, Inc. within the dam watershed, Fernando said the provincial government will act immediately to prevent further environmental damage, including halting excavation and other activities covered by the Supreme Court directive.
“Nature will protect itself in all circumstances, and anyone who violates it will be held accountable by law. We will not hesitate to take strong steps, no matter how difficult, if it is for the sake of nature and our citizens,” he added.