Residents of Barangay San Roque, Bulusan, Sorsogon are gathering signatures to oppose the planned quarrying in their barangay. They claim that no genuine consultation with them regarding the project took place, and quarrying will have a major impact on the environment.

On March 11, 2024, the Barangay Council of San Roque issued a no opposition resolution (Resolution No. 9, Series of 2024, or Resolution Interposing No Objection) to the application of Siating Construction and Development Corporation (SCAD Corporation). The council based this on a consultation with residents on March 1, 2024, in which residents supposedly approved the project. For this reason, the council granted the company a special permit for quarry operations in the village.

The resolution supposedly declares the northern part of Barangay San Roque as a “quarry zone.” The company plans to quarry or extract gravel and sand from Purok Iraya, near Bulusan Volcano Natural Park (BVNP), which is close to the residents’ main source of drinking water.

“The truth is that the people of San Roque strongly oppose any quarry project planned in our barangay because of its effect on our environment,” the residents’ petition states.

They say residents do not know if the project underwent a thorough study and proper process. The company also lacks an Environmental Compliance Certificate, so quarrying is still yet to start.

“Our opposition to the project asserts our recognition of the right of future generations to enjoy a healthy and well-preserved environment,” Barangay San Roque residents explained.