The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) confirmed on Wednesday that tree cutting along Quirino Avenue in Manila is authorized. The work is part of the Southern Access Link Expressway Project, developed by San Miguel Corp., and covered by Permit No. 2026-02-24-TCEBP-1609.
To make up for the trees removed, the project will plant 50,700 replacement seedlings within Manila. This number follows official guidelines to ensure proper ecological balance. Planting locations will be agreed with local authorities, and seedlings will be placed during the best growing season to maximize environmental benefits.
Under existing laws, tree cutting is allowed only for important projects like infrastructure, but only after strict checks. Permits are granted only if applications pass environmental reviews, technical assessments, and include measures to reduce harm to nature. Tree removal is not automatic — all requests are carefully evaluated to protect the environment.
