THE quarry operation by JMAT Gravel and Sand at Iyam River which covers the three barangays of Silangang Domoit and Potol in Tayabas City and Domoit in Lucena City has been going on since Feb. 3, 2014 when it was first issued its Environmental Compliance Certificate by the Environmental Management Bureau of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
Ever since JMAT started digging up and hauling rocks, sands and gravel in the areas, farmers and residents affected by the quarry activities have started to grumble and protest about the negative effects to their environment and livelihood.
Back then, they have already cried foul and called the attention of the authorities – from the local office of the DENR, the two local government units of Tayabas and Lucena, the provincial governor’s office – but JMAT still continued to carry on with its quarry activities as if unperturbed by all the fuss and commotion of protests of the residents.
And until now, with the help and support of Tanggol Kalikasan, they are still at it, complaining and protesting the enterprise. The JMAT owned by a certain Bryan Laredo of Lucena city, is still operating as if it is certain with the authorities that it can go on and on with what it has been merrily doing, extracting the wealth of the earth to kingdom come.
It is praiseworthy that groups like Tanggol Kalikasan, a non-government organization, are taking the cudgels for the poor Lucenahin and Tayabasin farmers and residents who are being threatened by environmental degradation.
The quarry operator continues to dig the river for rocks and boulders as floods, soil erosion and siltation threaten the environment.
What gives? (JB)