Manila: The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is examining the establishment timeline of the San Mateo landfill in Rizal, amidst rising concerns about its location within a designated protected area. This investigation seeks to clarify potential breaches of environmental regulations.

According to Philippines News Agency, DENR Assistant Secretary Norlito Eneran highlighted the importance of determining whether the landfill's establishment predated the area's designation as a protected zone. This determination is crucial in assessing any legal violations. Eneran emphasized that proper site assessment, including geological evaluations by the DENR's Mines Geosciences Bureau, is critical before setting up a sanitary landfill. Deviations from this process could lead to liabilities for those responsible for the landfill's construction.

Eneran further mentioned that under Republic Act 9003, known as the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000, violators could face administrative, civil, and criminal penalties. The DENR's decision on any sanctions will hinge on the findings of their ongoing investigation.

Reports indicate that the DENR's Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) in Real, Quezon, has delayed issuing clearance for the proposed construction of two 50-megawatt waste-to-energy (WTE) facilities in the vicinity. A CENRO notice pointed out that initial records suggest the existing landfill operations linked to the WTE project might need further legal and technical scrutiny concerning its location within the boundaries outlined by Presidential Proclamation 1636. This proclamation designates certain lands in Bulacan, Rizal, Laguna, and Quezon as protected areas.