National Economic and Development Authority-Region VI (NEDA-6) Director Ro-Ann Bacal recently revealed the Regional Development Council (RDC) found nearby quarries pose a risk to three major infrastructure projects in Iloilo.
According to the local NEDA official, erosion and the degradation of the riverbed caused by quarrying endanger the National Irrigation Administration-Region VI (NIA-6) diversion dam in Leon, the Suage Bridge in Janiuay, and the Jalaur Bridge in Calinog.
After consulting the matter with Iloilo Governor Arthur Defensor, Sr., along with officials from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Region VI, the Department of Public Works and Highways-Region VI, and NIA-6, the governor said he is considering the issuance of a moratorium on quarrying.
“Policies will be reviewed and amended while quarrying regulations will be strictly enforced,” noted Provincial Administrator Raul Banias./WDJ