Following a debate whether a mango tree in the middle of the road in Barangay Oraan East, Manaoag, Pangasinan should be removed or not, the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) recommended to have it cut down.

Motorists have long raised complaints about the tree, which they say poses a danger.

"Kailangan putulin kasi mas mahalaga ang buhay kaysa ang puno... ‘Yung purpose ng location is road. Hindi naman for food production," CENRO Assistant Officer Norma Laluan said.

Laluan added that the tree's position restricts water and nutrient access, making it unlikely to thrive.

Initially, Barangay Chairman Edwin Lacaste claimed the tree’s location is outside the road's boundary.

After being informed of CENRO's recommendation, Lacaste said he will have to take action.

"Dapat aksyonan ko talaga ‘yun. Kung kailangan kong putulin, putulin ko ‘yun, Sir, eh, para hindi na tayo aabutan ng may madisgrasya pa," he said.

The barangay is now coordinating with local officials to secure a tree-cutting permit from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

Lacaste also appealed to motorists for caution while passing through the area.

"Ang gusto kong sabihin sa mga motorista na dumadaan, ‘Yung curve na ‘yun, alalay na lang ang takbo. Aaksyunan ko ‘yan, tatanggalin ko ‘yung puno ng manga diyan," he said.