The massacre of trees in Quirino Avenue was “lawful” in the same way that permits granted for anomalous flood-control/pork barrel projects were “lawful” before they were found out.
Both highlight the extent of corruption in the bureaucracy and the pernicious use of laws and legal processes to enable the systematic theft of public funds and the approval of destructive projects.
They also show the shameless collusion of corrupt bureaucrats and big business interests in signing onerous contracts and the roll out of mega projects that cause massive harm and displacement to communities and environs.
The tree-cutting is linked to the Skyway project of San Miguel Corporation (SMC), the same company that bagged crony deals from the government such as the reclamation of Manila Bay, privatization of NAIA, and expansion of coal mining in Lake Sebu.
San Miguel Corporation is a favored campaign donor of the ruling elite. That SMC continues to be awarded contracts worth billions of pesos despite its culpability in oil spill disasters, labor contractualization, land speculation, demolition of urban poor and rural communities, and unjust profiteering schemes underscore its strong influence in the government dominated by corrupt political dynasties.
The public outcry against the massacre of trees in Manila reflects not just opposition to the legalized destruction of the environment but also the bankrupt political system that allows corrupt officials to use their position to amass ill-gotten wealth by boosting the profitability of corporate patrons and other vested interests. This is another clear demonstration of the crises engendered by bureaucrat capitalism.
Bayan calls on the people to call for the complete cancellation of the tree cutting and infrastructure projects that threaten the environment as well as the housing, livelihood, and welfare of local residents. Moreover, we demand a serious investigation as to how this project was approved and that those involved be made accountable. We enjoin environment crusaders and anti-corruption advocates to condemn entrenched impunity and bureaucrat capitalism in society.
Let us mobilize to hold accountable corrupt officials, expose and reject the anti-people projects of big business interests, and carry on the struggle for the establishment of a truly democratic government that pursues genuine development, upholds the interests of the people especially the basic sectors of society, and protects the environment.
‘Lawful’ tree cutting reflects entrenched impunity and bureaucrat capitalism
