NEWS

By Iya Gozum | Rappler | April 21, 2025 10:43 pm

‘Clearly, the ongoing construction has already begun taking its toll on the fish population due to the pollution and destruction of the coral reefs,’ the petition reads

MANILA, Philippines – Environmental groups, advocates filed a petition Monday, April 21, before the Supreme Court to stop the construction of Chinese-funded Samal Island-Davao City connector.

Petitioners said that the P23.52 billion bridge can damage coral reef ecosystems in Paradise Reef, Samal Island, and Hizon Marine Protected Area.

Sustainable Davao Movement, a network of environmental groups and advocates, and a representative from marine conservation group Dyesabel Philippines are asking the High Court to issue a writ of kalikasan and a temporary environmental protection order.

The writ of kalikasan is a legal remedy that protects the rights of Filipinos to a balanced and healthful ecology.

Drilling operations, sampling activities, construction of craneways and a port are affecting the marine ecosystems, the petitioners claimed. Further, petitioners said the project violated laws on protected areas, wildlife conservation, Davao City’s land use plan, among others.

“Clearly, the ongoing construction has already begun taking its toll on the fish population due to the pollution and destruction of the coral reefs,” the petition read.

The project not only affects the environment but livelihoods of fishers and safety of residents in the affected areas as well, they said.

Source: Rappler

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