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Masungi developer urges DENR to halt eviction, seeks dialogue
The property firm behind the Masungi Georeserve on Monday urged the Department of Environment (DENR) to halt its eviction order and engage in dialogue.
"Blue Star appeals for fair, transparent dialogue rather than abrupt termination,” Blue Star Construction & Development Corp said in a statement on Monday.
“The move disregards legal obligations, dismantles years of environmental rehabilitation efforts, and threatens the livelihoods of up to 100 rangers and staff committed to a vital conservation project," it added.
GMA News Online has reached out to DENR for comments.
Earlier this month, DENR scrapped its 2002 Supplemental Agreement with Blue Star citing its failure to execute terms within the contract and alleged issues on legality.
With this, DENR demanded Blue Star to vacate the 300-hectare area where the Masungi Georeserve conservation project in Rizal is located.
In its response, Blue Star said it is not accountable for the reported 5,000 missing housing units because the project did not commence due to DENR’s inability to clear the site of illegal settlers.
“The contract explicitly states that the project shall begin fifteen (15) days from DENR’s delivery of land free from encumbrances and adverse claims —conditions essential for peaceful, safe and lawful project implementation,” Blue Star said.
DENR earlier said the housing units were originally intended for government employees but are now venues for weddings and pre-nuptial shoots.
It added that the supplemental agreement was canceled for lack of the required Presidential Proclamation that should declare Lot 10 as open for disposition to develop housing units within the area.
In response, Blue Star said public bidding is not required for repeat orders or supplemental agreements within the original contract cost under Presidential Decree 1594.
“The reference to an expansion area of 300 hectares —compared to the original 130 hectares —is largely due to the presence of unbuildable karst terrain. The contract value, not the land area, is the relevant benchmark,” Blue Star said.
“Contrary to assertions that it is void, the SJVA does not require the prior issuance of a Presidential Proclamation alienating Lot 10 at the time of contract execution,” it added.
Last week, the Masungi Georeserve Foundation urged President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to stop and review DENR’s eviction notice. —Mariel Celine Serquiña/RF, GMA Integrated News
