07/03/2024
READ: Joint Petition by Environmental Organizations in the Philippines to Relocate Vena Energyโs Wind Farm Project Outside Masungi
Subject: Urgent Opposition to the Proposed Wind Farm Development by Rizal Wind Energy Corp. in the Masungi Karst Conservation Area
In the spirit of environmental stewardship and a deep commitment to preserving our planet's invaluable biodiversity, we, the undersigned environmental organizations in the Philippines, express our vehement opposition to the proposed wind farm development by Rizal Wind Energy Corporation (RWEC), a subsidiary of Vena Energy, within the bounds of the Masungi Karst Conservation Area (MKCA).
Our opposition stems not from a resistance to renewable energyโindeed, we recognize and support the critical need for clean, sustainable energy solutions to combat the escalating climate crisis. Our plea is for a thoughtful consideration of the balance between progress and preservation, a balance we find dangerously compromised by the proposed project.
The Masungi Karst: A Sanctuary Under Siege
The MKCA, nestled within the protections of Presidential Proclamation 1636 National Park, Wildlife Sanctuary, and Game Preserve, stands as a testament to natural beauty and ecological importance. This area, home to more than 500 documented species of flora and fauna, including the endangered Philippine Hawk-Eagle, Serpent Eagles, and Flying Foxes, is under threat. Wind turbines, known for their adverse effects on avian and chiropteran populations, represent a direct threat to these species' survival within this sanctuary.
It is imperative to remember the guidelines set forth by DENR Administrative Order 1993-33, authored by former Secretary, National Scientist, and Karst Expert Dr. Angel Alcala, which prohibited quarrying and suspended applications for large-scale commercial or industrial developments in the area, to preserve its ecological balance. As far as public records go, there has been no explicit lifting or cancellation of the said department order by another DENR Secretary. Thus, we believe this particular prohibition should remain in effect.
Furthermore, the MKCA Management Plan, established by the local government, designates the site as a Strict Protection Zone (SPZ)โa classification at odds with the development proposals at hand. The alleged designation of the area as a Multiple Use Zone within the bigger PP 1636 National Park suggests a critical oversight or misclassification that must be urgently addressed. Proposals for such developments, even inside Multiple Use Zones, should be evaluated based on specific site conditions.
The Cost of Progress: An Unacceptable Environmental Impact
The proposed construction of the wind farm, necessitating extensive land alteration and the establishment of wide roads, threatens not only the immediate conservation efforts but also paves the way for future encroachment and degradation of this fragile ecosystem. Such developments, by disrupting the natural ruggedness of the karst terrain, could spell irreversible damage to the area's biodiversity and geological significance, including the potential loss of ancient fossils and the Paleocene-age limestone spine that defines the region.
A Call for Responsible Action
In light of these considerations, the lack of thorough public consultation, and established scientific grounds, we urge the immediate revocation of any permits or resolutions favoring the exploration or development of the RWEC's wind farm. We further request a halt to the processing of applications for similar projects within the Masungi Karst Conservation Area and the broader Masungi Geopark Project. We implore Rizal Wind Energy Corporation and Vena Energy to explore alternative, less ecologically sensitive sites for their renewable energy initiatives.
As advocates of renewable energy and environmental conservation, we stand together in the belief that our pursuit of clean energy must not come at the expense of our natural heritage. We advocate for solutions that balance our energy needs with our environmental responsibilities, ensuring a sustainable future for all.
In solidarity with nature and future generations, we implore you to consider our plea with the gravity it deserves.
In solidarity,
ABS-CBN Foundation
Aksyon Verde - Pinagbuhatan
Aksyon sa Kahandaan sa Kalamidad at Klima - AKKMA
Alyansa Tigil Mina
Angat Kalikasan Pilipinas
Angat Taytay
ASEAN Youth Advocates Network
Ashoka Philippines
Buhay-ilang Research, Education, Conservation, Inc.
Center for Environmental Concerns - Philippines
Communities Organized for Resource Allocation (CORA) Inc.
Greenpeace Philippines
Ilog Pasiglahin
iNANGKAlikasan
Kalikasan People's Network for the Environment
Kalingang Taytay Youth
Kapatagan YOUTH Emergency Responders
Kilos Kapwa
Living Laudato Si'
makesense asia
Philippine Initiative for Conservation of Environment and the People
Philippine Misereor Partnership Inc.
Philippine Native Tree Enthusiasts
Philippine Reef and Rainforest Conservation Foundation
Philippines Biodiversity Conservation Foundation, Inc. (PBCFI)
Rotary Club of Midtown Quezon City
STEP PHILIPPINES
UP Rizaleรฑos
Waves For Water
Wild Bird Club of the Philippines
WWF-Philippines
Youth Advocates for Climate Action Philippines
Youth Advocates for Climate Action Philippines - National Capital Region Chapter
Youth Strike 4 Climate Philippines
