Firm, residents settle smoke emission issue

CEBU, Philippines - The management of Joyland Industries Corporation, a company accused by barangay Opao residents in Mandaue City of endangering their health with the alleged foul-smelling smoke emissions that come from its smokestacks, denied the accusation during a public hearing yesterday but promised to come up with measures that would be satisfactory to all parties concerned.

At the public hearing were sixth district Provincial Board Member Thadeo Ouano, chairman of the committee on environment at the provincial board, barangay Opao captain Basilisa Ouano-Icalina, Idna Tan, and lawyer Oliver Booc, who represents the company, Engr. Boy Ranile of the Mandaue City government, and Mark Silveron of the regional office of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-7.

PB member Ouano made clear that the public hearing's purpose was to come up with solutions to problems raised by residents and at the same time hear the company's side.

He said it was her sister barangay captain Joy Ouano-Icalina that had helped the residents be heard.

Former Mandaue City mayor Alfredo "Pedong" Ouano, a resident of barangay Opao also aired his concerns over the threat on the health of the residents.

Resident Rodila Montecillo said the smoke emissions threaten the residents' health and expressed her dismay over the inaction by barangay and company officials with regards the residents' petition which include the allegation that the emissions could put their lives in danger.

For her part, Tan said the company has introduced measures regarding the issue while denying that the company uses harmful chemicals.

She, however, assured that the company will look into the complaints and would work hand in hand with barangay officials to deal with the issue.

The company, through its lawyer Oliver Booc, in a letter dated January 27, 2011, strongly denied that the company had caused the deaths of some residents.

Booc said that his client has been operating in the place for more than 30 years already and complies with environmental laws. (FREEMAN)