Residents of Smokey Mountain in Tondo called on the Commission on Human Rights on June 29 to investigate alleged harassment tied to a waste-to-energy plant project. They protested outside a construction firm's office and the Environment Department.
Residents of Smokey Mountain and other parts of Tondo formed the Manila Anti-Incinerator Alliance. They submitted a petition to the Commission on Human Rights alleging that private guards fired guns in the area and pointed weapons at locals. The claims also include threats and forced home demolitions linked to the project.
The waste-to-energy facility is being developed by R-II Builders Incorporated under Reghis Romero II at the former dumpsite. Residents said the project endangers their homes and farming livelihoods. They have faced repeated demolitions since the 1995 closure of the Smokey Mountain dumpsite.
Before reaching the Commission on Human Rights the group protested at the firm's Diliman office in Quezon City and at the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. Anora Madrid of Samahan ng Maralita sa Smokey Mountain asked the commission to summon the builder the barangay and project officials.
It has been nearly a year since residents marched to Manila City Hall. They have received no response from Mayor Francisco Isko Moreno Domagoso.