An ecumenical group of bishops in the Philippines has backed residents opposing a proposed liquefied petroleum gas terminal near Lobo, Batangas, warning that the project could threaten public safety, coastal resources and local livelihoods.
The Executive Committee of the Ecumenical Bishops’ Forum said in an Oct. 12 pastoral statement that it stood with Archbishop Emeritus Ramon Arguelles, environmental advocates and communities opposing the proposed Pryce Gases LPG Terminal and Refilling Plant.
“We affirm that the care of God’s creation and the protection of human life are sacred responsibilities that must never be sacrificed for economic gain,” the bishops said.
The proposed facility is in Barangay Talahib Pandayan in Batangas City, near the boundary with Lobo. Residents said nearby communities, including Barangay Banalo in Lobo, would be directly affected.
The bishops said the project raised “serious concerns about public safety, ecological integrity, coastal and marine resources, and local livelihoods.”
“These concerns demand transparent and independent assessment, sound scientific evidence, meaningful public consultation, and the application of the precautionary principle,” they said.
Residents said the facility would stand about 42.3 meters from Banalo Elementary School. They also said Department of Energy rules require this type of industrial facility to be at least 100 meters from schools and residential areas.
Residents and environmental advocates have also raised concerns that vessels transporting LPG could pose pollution or spill risks to the Verde Island Passage and its marine resources.
The bishops said economic development should not come at the expense of communities.
“Development must serve the people, not endanger them. Economic progress cannot justify compromising human dignity, environmental protection, or the welfare of local communities,” they said.
They urged government agencies, local authorities and project proponents to ensure “full transparency, rigorous environmental and safety assessments, meaningful community participation, and strict compliance with the law before any decision proceeds.”
The prelates also called for peaceful and constructive advocacy and said those opposing the project should be allowed to speak freely.
“Legitimate dissent must be respected, and those who speak for the environment and the common good must not be silenced or intimidated,” the bishops said.
They linked environmental protection with the Church’s responsibility to defend human life and the common good, particularly communities whose health and livelihoods may be affected.
“Caring for creation is an essential expression of our love for God and neighbor. We stand with Archbishop Arguelles, the Church, environmental advocates, and the people of Lobo in defending their right to be heard and in protecting their community’s future,” they said.
The bishops called on leaders to place the common good above economic interests and heed communities whose lives and future could be affected by the project.
“For the Earth is God’s gift, life is sacred, and the care of creation is a moral responsibility we cannot abandon,” they said.
