Blue Star calls on DENR to halt eviction of Masungi Georeserve

On Tuesday, Blue Star Construction & Development Corp., which manages the Masungi Georeserve in Rizal, called on the Department of Environment (DENR) to halt its eviction order and engage in dialogue.

Blue Star stated that the eviction disregards legal obligations, undermines years of environmental rehabilitation efforts, and jeopardizes the livelihoods of up to 100 rangers and staff involved in conservation.

Earlier this month, DENR canceled a 2002 Supplemental Agreement with Blue Star due to alleged failures and legality issues, demanding that the company vacate the 300-hectare area where Masungi Georeserve is located.

Blue Star submitted a formal response on March 21 after receiving DENR's Notice of Cancellation and Eviction on March 17, arguing it was not responsible for missing housing units because the project did not start due to unresolved issues with illegal settlers.

The company contends that public bidding is unnecessary for repeat orders or supplemental agreements within the original contract cost under Presidential Decree 1594, and disputes DENR's claim that a Presidential Proclamation was needed to declare Lot 10 open for disposition.