By EDWIN IYO
Correspondent
MAYOR Marietta Abogado of Balingasag, Misamis Oriental over the weekend called on the environment department and the capitol to investigate into the alleged massive quarryings taking place in her town.
Abogado sounded alarm bells even as she alleged that the quarryings along the Balatukan River were illegal.
Conrado Mahinay, local environment and natural resources officer, said he has brought the matter to the attention of the regional office of the Mines and Geosciences Bureau.
Mahinay said a team was also being organized for a planned inspection of alleged illegal quarrying sites in Balingasag especially along the Balatukan River.
Karen Sabugaa, the municipal environment and natural resources unit head of Balingasag, confirmed Abogado’s allegations, saying the illegal extractions were rampant and massive.
The illegal operators, she said, were using heavy equipment, including backhoes.
Sabugaa said there were reports about illegal quarrying operations taking place in barangays Mandangoa and Napaliran in Balingasag.
At least six “big players” have been listed by the town government but she did not identify any.
Subugaa said, “Nagpadala nami og letter ngadto sa buhatan sa MGB and the Office of Provincial Governor of Misamis Oriental for [their] appropriate action.”
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