BREAKING: Tree-cutting along Quirino Avenue suspended—for now

DENR chief confirmed San Miguel Corp. voluntarily halted operations after huge backlash.

The controversial tree-cutting operations linked to the Southern Access Link Expressway (SALEX) extension project of San Miguel Corporation (SMC) have been suspended, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) confirmed.

The announcement was made following mounting opposition from environmental groups, residents, and conservation advocates, with DENR chief Juan Miguel Cuna saying that SMC voluntarily halted the operations while authorities study other mitigation measures.

These include the possible expansion of earth-balling efforts, a process that relocates trees instead of cutting them down entirely to make way for expansion projects.

The issue drew widespread criticism after advocates argued that the removal of mature trees along Manila could worsen flooding, heat retention, and biodiversity loss in already vulnerable urban areas.

The SALEX project along Quirino Avenue is part of an integrated expressway network that will expand connectivity between Metro Manila and areas in Southern Luzon.

Several groups have also questioned whether existing environmental safeguards are enough, especially as extreme heat, stronger typhoons, and flooding incidents continue to intensify across the country.

 

 

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources is now reviewing earth-balling alternatives as communities warn that losing these mature trees will worsen Manila’s severe flooding and extreme heat.

 

 

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