Photo credit: Masungi Georeserve

Drone surveillance has uncovered multiple drilling operations by Rizal Wind Energy Corp. (RWEC), backed by Singapore-based Vena Energy, aggressively breaching the pristine Masungi limestone formation. Images taken in late 2023 reveal the unsettling authorization of the Masungi Karst Conservation Area's (Tanay side) exploration for constructing approximately 12 colossal wind turbines.

This development entails widespread road construction, raising significant concerns for local wildlife, particularly threatening birds and bat populations. Contrary to DENR Administrative Order 33-1993, which strictly PROHIBITS applications for industrial or commercial uses of the area, and in blatant disregard of the Masungi Karst Conservation Area's designation in its own management plan as a STRICT PROTECTION ZONE, this venture marks a disturbing violation. Claims by the company of operating within a "Multi-purpose Zone" of the Unnamed PP1636 National Park are not an excuse, as this designation, even if true, starkly contradicts existing scientific research, demanding immediate correction.

It is unclear whether RWEC secured an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) for the drillings, a prerequisite for such operations, particularly in ecologically sensitive zones like Masungi. This further underscores the gravity of this oversight.

This incident not only poses a severe risk to our invaluable biodiversity but also highlights the problematic aspects of transitioning to renewable energy sources without due consideration for environmental integrity. To date, despite communication of facts to RWEC executives, the company has not signified any intention to find an alternative site for their wind farm, declaring the project as already in the "ADVANCED PRE-DEVELOPMENT STAGE."