Environmental group SEEDS PH and the Federation of Philippine Industries (FPI) are urging the local governments of San Simon and of Pampanga to file separate charges against smelters in the region that were recently shuttered for violation of environmental laws.
The groups said tests showed the river beside the facilities of these companies are contaminated with lead and other heavy metals and chemicals.
The municipality of San Simon has issued cease and desist orders against three companies that are all located inside the Global Aseana Business Park in Barangay Dela Paz, Pampanga.
The local government padlocked the premises last month for violating Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act and the Hazardous and Nuclear Wastes Act.
The law requires smelters to build recycling facilities.
Dhel Pulanco, SEEDS PH executive director, said water testing conducted in the river by an accredited laboratory last February showed clear signs of water pollution that could trigger fish kills. -Jed Macapagal