Envi groups back Gina
DAVAO-based environmentalist groups vouched during yesterday's press forum at the Habi at Kape at Abreeza Ayala Malls that Department of Environment and Resources (DENR) Secretary Gina Lopez is best for the position and should be reconfirmed as Department of Energy and Resources (DENR) Secretary.
Interface Development Interventions (Idis) Policy Advocacy Specialist Mark Pe¤alver said for the first time, the country has a DENR Secretary that is firm on her fight against irresponsible mining in our country.
Pe¤alver added that as they promote protection and conservation of watersheds in Davao City, they also support Secretary Lopez's stance on the closure and suspension of 75 mining companies in the country.
"For the first time after how many administrations, we have someone in the DENR who really, genuinely promotes social justice and promotes inter-generational responsibility. We are not protecting the environment just for our benefit, but for the benefit of future generations. She (Lopez) embodies that. We really want Gina Lopez to stay as secretary of DENR," Pe¤alver.
Bai Ali Indayla of Gabriela Women's Party also believed that there is no one to replace Lopez in her position.
"The Gabriela Women's Partylist supports the stand of Secretary Lopez to stop mining operations and her release of order against mining in watersheds. We believe that the Filipino people have the right for clean, potable water.
Gabriela Women’s Partylist also believes that Sec. Lopez’ belief against big and open-pit mining in our countries that destroys our environment and one of the reasons for the people’s poverty is right and just," Indayla said.
Aside from being optimistic about Lopez's appointment confirmation, Leo Fuentes Regional Coordinator of Masipag, Incorporated is also hopeful that President
Rodrigo Roa-Duterte would sustain the decision to close the mining companies that threaten the environment of the Philippines.
On March 1 or 2, tentative dates to announce whether Secretary Lopez would be confirmed or reconfirmed to the position.
Romeo T. Cabarde, Jr. of the University Community Engagement and Advocacy of the Ateneo de Davao University (UCEAC-AdDU), said different environmental groups will march in Davao City to support of Lopez's confirmation as DENR Secretary.