By Danny Estacio

PAGBILAO, Quezon- A quarry operator is complying with the recommendation of the Provincial Mining Regulatory Board (PMRB) following a cease-and-desist order issued at Barangay Palsabangon, here.

Michael Luis Ong owned the lot with an area of less than five hectares and was represented by his father as operator.

According to the order, the operator must comply with ensuring the operations strictly adhere to the agreed-upon products, and implement measures to mitigate environmental impact, such as proper disposal of uprooted trees and rock debris, regular maintenance of road access, and siltation ponds to prevent sediment runoff; access and mitigate the risk posed to vendors and nearby communities, particularly those vulnerable to landslide due to proximity to quarry operations.

The action of the PMRB was based on the complaint of the residents which also called the attention of municipal mayor Gigi Portes who quickly acted.

Barangay chairman Lito Merle said the quarry is not the cause of flooding in the said area.

He added that even though there was no quarry operation before, the area was flooded due to the rising flood water of the Palsabangon River and the hightide of Tayabas Bay.

The operator assured of strict compliance as indicated in the order.  

The stiff portion of the hill was reduced and down by a backhoe as per PMRD recommendation to the operator at Barangay Palsabangon in Pagbilao, Quezon