Pakil residents opposing the construction of Ahunan Hydro Electric Power Project held nothing back at the DENR-EMB public hearing on December 15, 2022. Anti-dam group Mamamayang Nagmamahal sa Pakil (MANAPAK) seize the opportunity in voicing their objections to the project amidst a pro-dam dominated audience.

The hearing is in connection with the DENR-EMB’s review of the proposed 1400-megawatt pump-storage plant’s Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). A requisite for the issuance of Environmental Compliance Certificate.

Ahunan Power’s Janssen Dela Cruz takes centerstage in presenting the project description, Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), and the open forum.

The bone of contention is the project’s destructive consequence on Pakil’s environment and its potential threat. Ashley San Gaspar, MANAPAK member of Bgy. Tavera, raised the issue of dire risks to the town in reference to four major landslides which struck Pakil in the late ’70s. These, he says, are testament to the high susceptibility of the mountain.

He adds that construction of the 6.9-kilometer roadway to the project site will subject their prized santol and lanzones trees to destruction.

Pro-dam supporters are quick to drown out MANAPAK’s case. Community Facilitator Andrea Regalado countered San Gaspar’s testimony saying their 6 months studies on the site can confirm the safety of the project.

“Huwag po nating hadlangan ang magandang kinabukasan na ino-offer ng Ahunan sa bayan ng Pakil.” Regalado’s words was accompanied by cheers from the bleacher. Their support for the project is due to its prospect of progress and jobs to keep Pakileños from migrating to greener pastures.

Human rights activist Kiri Dalena silenced the crowd shortly as she challenged pro-dam supporters if they have leaf through the 507-page Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). She says going over the paper – prepared by Ahunan Power consultant Apercu – is not easy and requires careful study.

She calls on the DENR-EMB to provide more time for them to look into the EIS considering its complexity. “Kailangan magkaroon ng masinsinang pagaaral at magkaroon ng sapat na alternatibong konsultasyon sa iba pang mga eksperto.”

Pro-dam supporters stick to their position, counting on the project to address basic concerns such as jobs, roads, and even sewage system. Barangay Chairperson Jason Abuel points to the poor conditions of their area in Saray. He asks for the project to proceed and at least provide a road that would reach their remote village. San Gaspar, however, reminded him that should an accident befalls the dam, their barangay would be first hit.

MANAPAK member Vernon Valero clarifies that they are not against progress, but are against the project’s environmental impact and potential dangers.

The group raises questions on Ahunan Power’s conduct of sponsorships in the community. They insist for more participation and representations to public dialogues. MANAPAK focal person Tessie Sanchez reaches out to landowners to not sell their property to the proponents. “Walang lupa, walang dam.”

On the proponent’s use of “ahunan” in labeling the hydropower project, Armando Dizon airs debasement of the term which, he says, refers to the annual event where Catholic devotees climb the sacred Mount Ping-as for a religious celebration.

Acknowledging the label’s cultural bearing, De la Cruz asks for suggestions to name the project. To which Dizon replied, “Wala po akong isa-suggest. Kasi kung ako ang tatanungin, hindi ako papayag na matuloy ang proyektong ito.”

A position paper was submitted by Tessie Sanchez to the DENR before the hearing. The event, held at the St. Peter of Alcantara College gym in Pakil, Laguna, was moderated by DENR-NCR’s Atty. Jed Ang. A recap of the issues raised concluded the hearing. The public now awaits whether DENR-EMB will issue an ECC or otherwise.

(Cover photo: Human rights activist Kiri Dalena makes a point at the Pakil Ahunan Dam public hearing.)