Protests Erupt Against Tree Cutting for Manila Expressway Project
Groups decry cutting of decades-old trees for Manila expressway project
Inquirer
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Environmental groups and activists protested in Manila against the Department of Natural Resources' (DENR) approval of cutting down decades-old trees for the Southern Access Link Expressway (SALEx) project. They argue this decision harms ecosystems and communities while prioritizing corporate interests.
- 01Protesters formed a human chain around trees marked for cutting along Mabini Street in Manila.
- 02The DENR claims the tree removal is legally permitted and follows environmental regulations.
- 03Critics argue the SALEx project benefits investors at the expense of local communities and ecosystems.
- 04Kalikasan People’s Network for the Environment demands accountability from government agencies regarding environmental governance.
- 05Fisherfolk groups warn that infrastructure projects threaten marine ecosystems and local livelihoods.
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On May 26, environmental activists, fisherfolk organizations, and youth gathered in Manila to protest the Department of Natural Resources (DENR)-backed cutting of decades-old trees for the Southern Access Link Expressway (SALEx) project. Led by the Kalikasan People’s Network for the Environment, protesters formed a human chain around the trees marked for removal, emphasizing the detrimental impact on local ecosystems and communities. The DENR defended the tree cutting as legally sanctioned under strict regulations. Critics contend that SALEx is part of a broader network of projects favoring corporate interests while displacing vulnerable communities. Kalikasan highlighted that the removal of mature trees exacerbates urban issues like flooding and air pollution. They assert that the proposed planting of 50,700 seedlings cannot compensate for the ecological roles of the old trees. Fisherfolk group Pamalakaya also expressed concerns about the negative effects on coastal communities and marine life due to large-scale infrastructure projects. Youth activists called for stronger public resistance against such environmentally harmful initiatives and urged the Manila City Government to prioritize the preservation of green spaces.
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The tree cutting for the SALEx project is expected to worsen urban flooding and air pollution, affecting local communities.
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