Pimentel seeks Senate inquiry on Canada’s garbage in PH

Protesters tell Canada to take back tons of garbage illegally shipped to a port in Manila from Canada two years ago. NIÑO JESUS ORBETA/FILE PHOTO

Senate President Aquilino Pimentel III has sought for an inquiry into the Canadian garbage dumped on Philippine soil.

In Senate Resolution 553, Pimentel noted the issues raised by environmental groups who expressed outrage against the 103 container vans of trash shipped from Canada to Manila since 2013.

In the resolution, Pimentel cited Article 11, Section 16 of the Constitution mandating the State “to protect and advance the right of the people to a balanced and healthful ecology in accord with the rhythm and harmony of nature.”

“Considering the monumental consequences, it behooves us in the Senate to conduct an inquiry, in aid of legislation, to determine whether there are sufficient laws restricting the indiscriminate entry and dumping of solid wastes and other harmful trash into our country,” Pimentel stressed.

Pimentel said the government has already asked the Canadian Embassy to return the garbage back to Canada. However, no assistance was extended, the senator said.

During the 31st Asean Summit in Manila, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said it is “theoretically possible” for his country to take back its trash since the legal restrictions have already been addressed.