Environmentalists oppose early closure of Navotas dumpsite

Environmental experts cautioned against the premature and illegal closure of the Navotas controlled dumpsite, saying this will exacerbate environment problems in the area and adjacent municipalities.

Albert Magalang, executive director of the National Solid Waste Management Commission (NSWMC), said the closure of the Navotas Controlled Disposal Facility (CDF) in Barangay Tanza will make the dumpsite unstable because it will be susceptible to elements and pose serious damage to the environment.

He noted that since the desired fill-up elevation for the CDF has not been attained, rain water will fill the dumpsite, causing this to subsequently overflow and lead to the Navotas river.

"There is a clear and present danger of damaging the river especially when the rainy season comes," said Magalang.

He added that illegal barricades put up by militant groups in the Binuangan river to prevent barges bearing tons of garbage from reaching the CDF will affect not only Navotas residents but also residents of Obando, Bulacan since they are linked by a common river system.

Corazon Davis, regional executive director of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-National Capital Region (DENR-NCR) and focal person for solid waste management in Metro Manila, echoed Magalang’s views.

She said the private contractor for the Navotas CDF should be given enough time to close the controlled dumpsite while introducing mitigating measures in the area.

The closure of the Navotas CDF is scheduled on Dec. 31, 2005, or two months ahead of its original closure date in February 2006 as required by Republic Act 9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000.

There is pressure from militant groups to close the dumpsite and they have already entrenched a river barricade.

The DENR-NSWMC asked these groups to lift the barricade and allow government environment experts to oversee the Navotas dumpsite and ensure that appropriate measures are carried out to protect the surrounding environment.

On the other hand, Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) General Manager Robert Nacianceno said the Philippine Coast Guard has deployed units to maintain peace and observe the illegal river barricade.

"We are closely monitoring developments in the area. If violence erupts at the barricade, then it becomes a police matter. Nonetheless, the MMDA is prepared to provide assistance to Navotas when it becomes necessary," said Nacianceno.