50 signatures reached
To: The Sanggunian Bayan of Buenavista, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Department of Public Works and highways
Opposition to the cutting of trees (Calingao to Atlas) for road widening and beautification projects
The Sanggunian Bayan of the Municipality of Buenavista Guimaras, the DENR and DPWH:
I would like to appeal to the plight of the trees that are affected by the road widening and beautification projects in the Municipality of Buenavista. I understand that development and progress are the dreams of every community. However, in reaching these dreams, I think the trees that have stood for so long a time should not be compromised. We all know the significance of trees in the environment; thus, I do not believe that we cannot think of better ways to develop or become progressive without cutting them. What more of a beauty are we seeking than the grandeur of a tree? Many trees have already been sacrificed for government projects. The people were not even informed or consulted whether they approved of the cutting of trees or not. The local legislators free themselves of the responsibility of guarding the trees, claiming that they have no right to oppose when the purpose is for the road widening. The DENR and the DPWH, on the other hand, had an agreement that permits to cut trees should outright be given when the purpose is road widening and beautification. Thus, I am wondering where we should place ourselves and the trees to remain standing tall when the agencies of government that are supposed to protect us and the environment are working against us in a way that they think is for the betterment of all. I started a signature campaign against the cutting of the trees, and I do not expect a positive response. How may the people express themselves freely in a place where their rights are held captive? The people, when they oppose, their assistance from the government is withheld, and their jobs are compromised. Thus, the people are held by the neck so that they cannot raise their voices.
I would like to appeal to the plight of the trees that are affected by the road widening and beautification projects in the Municipality of Buenavista. I understand that development and progress are the dreams of every community. However, in reaching these dreams, I think the trees that have stood for so long a time should not be compromised. We all know the significance of trees in the environment; thus, I do not believe that we cannot think of better ways to develop or become progressive without cutting them. What more of a beauty are we seeking than the grandeur of a tree? Many trees have already been sacrificed for government projects. The people were not even informed or consulted whether they approved of the cutting of trees or not. The local legislators free themselves of the responsibility of guarding the trees, claiming that they have no right to oppose when the purpose is for the road widening. The DENR and the DPWH, on the other hand, had an agreement that permits to cut trees should outright be given when the purpose is road widening and beautification. Thus, I am wondering where we should place ourselves and the trees to remain standing tall when the agencies of government that are supposed to protect us and the environment are working against us in a way that they think is for the betterment of all. I started a signature campaign against the cutting of the trees, and I do not expect a positive response. How may the people express themselves freely in a place where their rights are held captive? The people, when they oppose, their assistance from the government is withheld, and their jobs are compromised. Thus, the people are held by the neck so that they cannot raise their voices.
Why is this important?
The people should join me because I am not doing this only for myself but for our children and our children's children.