MikeLigalig.com

By Nestor P. Burgos Jr.
Inquirer Visayas

A group of lawyers and residents of this city have filed a P5-million citizens’ suit against the city government and two government agencies for operating an open garbage dumpsite perceived to cause health and environmental hazards.

In a petition filed before the Iloilo Regional Trial Court on Wednesday, the residents asked the court to issue a mandamus and injunction to stop city officials from allowing the dumping of garbage at the 22-hectare dumpsite in the village of Calajunan in Mandurriao District.

Named respondents were the city government represented by Mayor Jerry Treñas, the city council represented by Vice Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog, the regional office of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources represented by regional director Oscar Cabanayan, and the regional office of the Department of Health represented by regional director Dr. Ariel Valencia.

Good job on the people's decision. This should be a lesson for all provincial municipal governments.