Quiño orders tire recycling plant closed

CEBU, Philippines - Compostela town Mayor Joel Quiño has ordered the closure of the controversial tire recycling factory in barangay Tamiao, which has been the subject of complaints from residents in the place for several years now.

The cease and desist order signed by Quiño, a copy of which was furnished to The FREEMAN, is addressed to one Luzviminda Taboada, one of the owners of the firm.

In his order, Quiño told Taboada about the various complaints his office has received regarding the rampant violations of environmental laws, particularly the Clean Air Act, by her firm.

The municipal council, which has received similar complaints, has passed a resolution endorsing the closure of the company.

“Failure to comply with this order shall constrain us to institute legal action against you and all other persons acting on your behalf,” Quino’s order to Taboada stated.

The pollution problem caused allegedly by the firm has also reached the regional office of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

Residents allege that burning tires give off smoke which affect their children’s health.

The factory operates near a river that separates the towns of Liloan and Compostela.

The complaints  said children near the area often get sick and that groundwater in the area has become yellowish in color.

A resort owner in barangay Cabadiangan said guests have been complaining against the smell of burning tires and black soot particles in the smoke.

The Union Tyres, which is owned by a Taiwanese national who is married to a Filipina, has been operating since 2008.

Residents said the factory has been emitting black smoke and foul odor that cause dizziness, headaches, and even triggers pneumonia attacks among children and adults alike.

Residents who filed the complaint accused the previous administration of favoring the tire plant because a mayor’s permit was issued to the firm that had not acquired an Environmental Certificate Clearance from the DENR. - THE FREEMAN