THE LONG-planned bridge that will connect the island province of Samal to mainland Mindanao through Davao City is facing another hurdle with one family threatening to file Writ of Kalikasan, according to Davao Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio. A Writ of Kalikasan — as contained in Section 16, Article II of the Philippine Constitution — is a legal remedy under Philippine law that provides protection of one’s constitutional right to a healthy environment. Ms. Carpio, in an interview at her office last week, said the family has complained of right of way through a letter to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). “I have a copy but the letter was not addressed to me, that’s why I don’t think I have the right to release it. The last information I received was that the oppositor has plans to file a Writ of Kalikasan against the project. So we can expect delays for its construction,” she said. The P23.04 billion Davao-Samal connector, which will span 2.8 kilometers and to be funded through official development assistance, has already received final approval from the national government through the National Economic and Development Authority. Ms. Carpio said the final bridge location will be in R. Castillo Street, Agdao on the Davao City side and in Barangay Caliclic in Samal. The Island Garden City of Samal, which is under the jurisdiction of the Davao del Norte provincial government, is one of the most popular beach destinations in the Davao Region given its proximity and accessibility from Davao City. — Maya M. Padillo

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