In connection with the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) review of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – National Capital Region (DENR-NCR) Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) needed for the issuance of the Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) of UP Manila, a public hearing was held on August 30, 2023, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM at the UP Manila Theater.

The public hearing is the initiative of the Vice Chancellor for Planning and Development Dr. Michael L. Tee, and Campus Planning and Development Office Chief Ar. Rosalie Flores-Bernardo.

In attendance were representatives from DENR-NCR EMB, City of Manila, stakeholders of places and businesses surrounding the UP Manila campus, and UP Manila’s environmental consultant Broadfield Engineering Technologies and Integrated Services. Also in attendance were representatives from the Ugnayan ng Pahinungod Manila, as well as those from other UP Manila offices.

In his opening remarks, Vice Chancellor Tee informed the assembly that the event is the first-ever public hearing conducted by the university for the ECC application. He stressed the importance of holding such an event as the stakeholders of UP Manila need to be apprised of the university’s plans and projects, as these will affect them as well. Underlining the role of the university as the Health Sciences Center, he emphasized that UP Manila is their partner in taking care of the environment, as its connection to health is now more pronounced than ever. Dr. Tee declared that UP Manila commits to be a partner in protecting the health of its constituents and neighbors, and thanked the EMB-NCR for the opportunity to present its plans.

Representatives from Broadfield Engineering Technologies and Integrated Services then presented the plans and programs of UP Manila to meet the ECC requirements and to help ensure that possible sources of pollution within and outside the university are addressed.

During the open forum facilitated by the EMB-NCR representatives, the stakeholders showed no objection to the plans and proposals of UP Manila, thereby affirming their support for all the projects.

Ar. Flores-Bernardo, in her closing remarks, thanked all the guests and assured them that the university will always think of their safety and of the environment.

(Martin R. Racza)