CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Philippines – Pampanga Governor Dennis “Delta” Pineda on Saturday, January 27, ordered an immediate halt to sand quarrying by R.D. Policarpio & Co. Inc. near a bridge under construction in Barangay San Agustin, Arayat.
Citing a Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) directive, Pineda stressed that quarrying within one kilometer of a bridge is prohibited. “Bawal po ang quarry isang kilometro bago at pagkatapos ng tulay,” he said.
The governor revealed that he warned the construction company during a meeting that legal action would be taken if quarrying continued. “Manganganib ang tulay at mapapahamak ang mga motorista at pasahero,” Pineda emphasized.
Following his directive, the provincial regulatory body Kalam (Kapampangan a Lulugud at Matapat) impounded a dump truck and backhoe found operating just 100 meters from the bridge.
The provincial government plans to pursue charges against the contractor for violating quarrying regulations in Arayat.
“This reckless activity jeopardizes public safety and infrastructure. We will not hesitate to hold violators accountable,” Pineda said.
The incident underscores the province’s strict enforcement of quarrying rules, particularly in areas with critical infrastructure.