BACOLOD CITY – The Diocese of San Carlos in Negros Occidental is opposing the construction of a 300-megawatt (MW) coal-fired plant proposed by SMC Global Power Holdings Corp., the power arm of conglomerate San Miguel Corp., in the northern Negros city.
Bishop Gerardo Alminaza, in a position paper issued on Thursday, said the Catholic Church supports the people’s protection of common good and common home; and believes that progress can be achieved by sustainable and climate-friendly means.
“Hence, the Diocese of San Carlos is in opposition (to) the planned 300-MW coal plant of San Miguel Corp. Global. We appeal to them to invest instead their capital in developing sources of renewable energy,” he added.
Data from the Department of Energy website showed that SMC Global Power is included on the list of companies issued with clearance for the conduct of a grid impact study (GIS) as of August 2018.
It stated that the power firm proposes to build a 300-MW CFB (circulating fluidized bed) coal-fired power plant in San Carlos City.
Alminaza pointed out that San Carlos City has been recognized by the United Nations as one of the most livable cities in the world and considered as the energy hub of the Philippines and Southeast Asia with its biofuel and solar energy plants.
“Not only will a new coal plant stain these global recognitions and honors, it will pollute as well the commons (water, air and land), harm human health, and downturn community resilience,” he added.
As part of the pastoral challenge and collective response, the bishop called on the local government of San Carlos and the provincial government of Negros Occidental to disapprove any proposal or application of SMC Global or any company at all for a coal-fired power plant project.
“We encourage Negrosanons and local business industries to continue their real efforts towards a more sustainable and cleaner environment. As stewards of the Earth and as individuals with common needs, it is our duty to take care of our home and love our neighbors as we love ourselves,” Alminaza added.
The prelate also said that on their part, the Bishop’s Home, Chancery and Diocesan Seminary are gradually transitioning to renewable energy sources.
Last month, San Carlos City was awarded as one of the world’s Top 100 Sustainable Destinations during a ceremony held at the Lindenberg Home for the Arts in Nijmegen City in The Netherlands. (Nanette Guadalquiver/PNA)
