The University of the Philippines Baguio is one of the institutions opposed to the planned road widening by the Baguio City District Engineering Office.
Priests at St. Francis Seminary and Home Sweet Home earlier submitted their opposition to the plan, as this would entail cutting of decades-old trees.
In a statement, the UP Baguio Executive Staff said when they were consulted by the Department of Public Works and Highways, they suggested for the agency to explore alternatives such as establishing greenbelts instead of widening the road, but these were reportedly ignored.
In the planned widening of the road from Baguio General Hospital circle to the Baguio Convention Center, the UP Baguio Residence Hall and WALK-UP Housing buildings will be affected.
The UP executive staff said rehabilitation of public roads should be explored further with the help of various sectors and experts coordinating with concerned government agencies.
“Paving the way for much-desired future progress borne of ‘modernization’ should be informed both by sustainable development and by governance that takes into consideration views, contexts, and work which are holistic, participatory, and truly pro-people and pro-environment,” UP Executive Staff said in a statement.
City Environment and Parks Management Officer Rhenan Diwas has clarified to the city council that the tree cutting permits issued by the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office to the DPWH covers Mt. Peace Retreat House only, contrary to what is circulating on social media that 36 trees will be cut at Home Sweet Home alone.
In documents obtained by the Courier, Mayor Benjamin Magalong cleared the cutting of 31 trees at five areas – Gov. Pack Road, Kennon Road, Marcos Highway, Fr. Carlu Loop, and Bonifacio Street.
These trees are 15 Benguet pine, one avocado, two pink shower, nine agoho, two bottle brush, and two eucalyptus.
The BCDEO has yet to apply for tree cutting permit for its other projects. – Rimaliza A. Opiña
April 27, 2024
