Communities Walk Out of DENR Scoping, Demand Halt to Smokey Mountain Projects

• Affected communities and the Manila Anti-Incinerator Alliance (MAIA) walked out of a second public scoping session hosted by the DENR-EMB, citing frustration over ignored project violations.
• Protesters claim the proposed "Smokey Mountain Land Rehabilitation Project" is a front for a waste-to-energy (WTE) incineration facility.
• Residents demand the DENR cease project activities, citing unauthorized pre-construction work, harassment, and displacement.

Project Controversy and Claims

• MAIA asserts that Smokey Mountain has already undergone decades of restoration and community development, now featuring vegetation and no visible methane-related smoke.
• The Court Receiver claims the project is intended to support the Supreme Court Mandamus on Manila Bay Rehabilitation; however, MAIA argues the Receiver has no legal authority to conduct land redevelopment or construction, as their mandate is limited to asset preservation.
• Proponents allegedly aim to clear the land of "legacy waste" to facilitate the construction of a waste-burning plant.

Community Demands

• Immediate termination of all proposed projects in the area.
• Enforcement of the national incineration ban per the Clean Air Act and Ecological Solid Waste Management Act.
• End to forced evictions and intimidation by security personnel.
• Provision of on-site, in-city housing for affected residents.