A dumpsite bordering Liliw town in Laguna province is threatening to destroy the pristine environment of the favorite tourism destination.
Lot and homeowner Ric Pinca of Liliw wrote Department of Environment and Natural Resources Ma. Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga on January 29, 2024 to inform her about the operation of the dumpsite in Barangay Alipit, Sta. Cruz that shares a common border with Liliw.
Pinca said the dumpsite threatens the health of residents of Alipit and adjacent Barangay Mojon with overpowering stench, presence of flies and “the uncontrolled spread of plastic garbage and other refuse which are carried by the wind as it blows from the direction of dumpsite; and rainwater whenever a downpour occurs.”
“There is also the imminent danger of the liquified residue of the garbage seeping into the Bucal River, which is just about two hundred meters from the dumpsite. This garbage dump is located on an elevated area and the run off of waste materials towards the lower surrounding areas including the Bucal River is very pronounced, concerning and disgusting.”
Pinca appealed to the DENR to stop the operation of the dumpsite and save the people of Barangays Alipit and Mojon from diseases and other dangers it could bring,
“The imminent seepage of unimaginably dangerous liquid materials from this dumpsite may pollute, if not poison, the waters the Bucal River,” he said.
“It would be disastrous to see the clear and fresh water from Mount Banahaw (which feeds this river) turn murky, and brown just like those of Pasig River which your Department, and the private sector, is trying to save right now.”
Liliw is known for its fresh, flowing streams and a favorite destination for foreign and local tourists. “There are beautiful resorts along this river and their economic viability is in danger. This dumpsite will ruin this source of pride and income and pride for Liliw, Laguna,” said Pinca.
He urged Loyzaga to stop the operation of the dumpsite to preserve the beauty of the area.
“If no action is done by those responsible for concerns like this, the dumpsite may just turn out into another ‘Smokey Mountain’ with the filth, pollution and the environmental degradation it would wreak upon us all,” Pinca warned.
