DENR gets land donation for proposed sewage treatment plant in Puerto Galera

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has received a land donation for the proposed installation of a sewage treatment plant (STP) near the popular white beach of Puerto Galera in Oriental Mindoro.

The Locsin Foundation, headed by Leandro Locsin Jr. and Luis Locsin, heirs of the National Artist of the Philippines for Architecture Leandro Locsin, donated 11,444 square meters of land to be used for a second wastewater treatment facility on the island.

DENR OIC Secretary Jim O. Sampulna welcomed the donation and noted that it will be a big boost in the agency’s efforts to preserve Puerto Galera’s marine resources.

“We are thankful for the Locsin Foundation’s generous contribution in protecting and conserving the waters and natural resources of Puerto Galera. This next step will be a great stand in preventing a Boracay-like scenario,” Sampulna said during the turnover of the Transfer Certificate of Title.

Sampulna commended the Locsin family for being environmental advocates, and for Puerto Galera Mayor Rocky D. Ilagan for being proactive in taking a step towards partnering with a landowner to install STPs in his town.

He added that the Locsin family has been responsible for the preservation of several lands in Puerto Galera to keep marine resources and natural habitats safe from further destruction, including repopulating giant clams and keeping them on the island.

Retired Col. Noel J. Detogato, a representative of the Locsin Foundation, said their partnership with the DENR and local government of Puerto Galera exhibits a serious commitment for them to come together for a common environmental cause and the welfare of future generations.

Puerto Galera’s first STP is located at Barangay Sabang and became fully operational in 2020. It has since been treating about 1,750 cubic meters of uncontrolled wastewater daily.