Catholic charity backs Lobo residents opposing LPG terminal project

MANILA — The Catholic social welfare organization Caritas Philippines has expressed support for efforts by Batangas Archbishop Emeritus Ramon Arguelles and residents of Lobo to block a proposed liquefied petroleum gas terminal and refilling plant in the coastal municipality.

Gerardo Alminaza, bishop of San Carlos and president of Caritas Philippines, said the dispute extends beyond a single industrial project. "This is not simply about one project," Alminaza stated, indicating that the issue encompasses broader concerns affecting the community and its environment.

The LPG terminal proposal has drawn opposition from local residents and church leaders, who have raised questions about the project's potential impact on the municipality. Caritas Philippines' backing adds the weight of the national Catholic charity to community efforts challenging the development.

The support from Caritas Philippines represents a significant show of institutional backing for Lobo residents as they continue to voice objections to the proposed facility. The organization's involvement underscores how the dispute has resonated beyond local government circles to attract attention from major civil society groups in the Philippines.