BACOLOD City — The Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) Committee on Environment and Ecology will conduct a public hearing regarding the planned removal of several trees at the Bacolod Tree Park in Barangay Alangilan to pave the way for a new development project.
The city government recently held a groundbreaking ceremony on September 4 for the Phase 1 development of the Tree Park, aimed at transforming the area into a tourist destination.
Ma. Fe Trespuentes, head of the Bacolod Environment and Natural Resources Office (BENRO), explained that environmental compliance is a key component of the project. She emphasized the need for a Resolution of No Objection (RONO) from both the barangay and the city council before the project can proceed.
During the SP’s regular session last Wednesday, Councilor Claudio Jesus Puentevella, chair of the committee, acknowledged Trespuentes’ request for a RONO to cut 79 trees affected by the development.
Trespuentes said the city coordinated with the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) in Bago City, Negros Occidental, to identify the affected trees, most of which are mahogany. She clarified that these trees, planted as early as 2000, are not endangered species and include a mix of young and mature specimens.
She assured that the city has plans for replacement planting, as it maintains a nursery for growing trees. Additionally, the felled trees will be utilized as materials for fixtures in the project.
The committee has yet to announce the schedule for the public hearing./PN
