By Nycel Jane Dela
Quarry operations in the Municipality of Sapian sparked heated discussions after blasting activities in Barangay Poblacion went viral on social media and raised fears of damaging the environment and community.
“There is something wrong with this project,” said Mayor Joe Villanueva, who issued an executive order that created a team to review the quarry operations of R.A. Arcenas Construction Inc.
The Capiz Environment and Natural Resources Office (CaPENRO) also separately issued a cease-and-desist order against the quarry operator.
Residents of Barangy Pobloacion aired their frustrations that they were never informed about the project during an August 22, 2025 public consultation.
“Dapat ginpabalo danay kami pero wala gid kami gin inform. Apektado gid kami (We should have been informed first, but we never were informed. We are deeply affected),” shared one resident.
Present during the public consultation were officials of the local government unit (LGU) of Sapian, CaPENRO head Allan Cullo, and representatives of the quarry operator.
Villanueva questioned the legality of the quarry operations, pointing out that the resolution being used was still from 2021.
Meanwhile, CaPENRO assured the public that the cease-and-desist order remains in effect until R.A. Arcenas Construction Inc. proves it has complied with environmental regulations.
