Catholic prelate lauds SC decision on the transfer of Pandacan oil depot

Photo courtesy of Interaksyon

MANILA — A Catholic prelate is pleased with the decision of the Supreme Court (SC) ordering the “Big 3” oil companies to move out of the Pandacan oil depot in Manila.

At the same time, Bishop Broderick Pabillo, chairman of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines-Episcopal Commission on Public Affairs (CBCP-ECPA), is hoping that the order will be implemented as soon as possible.

“I am happy with the decision. I just hope that it will be immediately implemented,” he said. “That’s a good decision from the SC because we see that although these are big companies, they still sided with the people.”

The Manila Auxiliary bishop also hopes that a portion of the property will be used to provide a place for the homeless.

“I hope a portion of that land will be used to house the informal settlers,” he said.

Pabillo noted that many people, including Church leaders, fought for the depot to be transferred since it poses danger to the 80,000 residents in the area.

With this, he urged the people to be vigilant in monitoring the implementation of the order.

On Tuesday, the High Court, voting 10-2, ordered the three oil companies to transfer the oil depot.

It has given the firms 45 days to come up with a relocation plan to be implemented within six months.