DENR considers sanctions on projects without enviro permits

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is considering imposing administrative sanctions on projects and contractors operating without required environmental permits.

Environment Secretary Raphael Lotilla emphasized the importance of compliance with environmental laws to prevent flooding and other climate-related risks during a press briefing in Pasay City.

DENR Undersecretary Jonas Leones noted that the agency can file administrative cases under PD 1586, which mandates an environmental impact statement system for all development projects.

The DENR is using satellite monitoring to track flood control projects and report non-compliant or incomplete ones to the Office of the President.

Lotilla stressed the need for accountability in addressing violations of environmental laws, noting that administrative fines under PD 1586 can reach PHP50,000 per violation but do not address broader issues like damage caused by ill-planned infrastructure.

The DENR chief highlighted the role of local government units (LGUs) as the first line of defense in issuing building permits and enforcing zoning rules to prevent illegal activities before they cause harm.

Lotilla called for closer coordination between national agencies, LGUs, and communities to ensure that infrastructure supports resilience rather than undermines it.