Politics · Philippines Bureau
DENR rejects DPWH tree-cutting bid for Metro Manila bridge work
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources has returned an application from the Department of Public Works and Highways seeking approval to cut trees in Marikina City for a major infrastructure project. Environment Secretary Juan Miguel Cuna disclosed the decision during congressional budget hearings.
LSN Philippines ·
The DENR's action to reject the tree-cutting permit application marks a setback for the Metro Manila Bridges Project, which had sought authorization to remove trees in the Marikina area as part of its construction activities.
Environment Secretary Juan Miguel Cuna announced the development during budget deliberations in Congress on Wednesday, signaling the government's environmental agency is maintaining stricter scrutiny over infrastructure projects that could impact urban forests and green spaces.
The decision underscores ongoing tensions between infrastructure development and environmental protection in Metro Manila, where competing demands for modernization and conservation continue to surface. The DPWH will need to revisit its application or explore alternative approaches for the bridge project that address environmental concerns raised by the DENR.
It remained unclear whether the DPWH intends to resubmit a modified application or pursue other routes to obtain the necessary clearances for the project. The DENR's stance reflects increasing pressure from environmental groups and lawmakers to preserve the metropolitan area's remaining tree cover.