A group of students has petitioned the Supreme Court to stop tree-cutting activities for the Manila Skyway Extension and Elevated Expressway (SALEX) project, according to a report by Philstar Biz. The petitioners argue that the cutting of mature trees violates environmental laws and the public's right to a balanced ecology.
The students specifically question a provision in the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Code that the Regional Trial Court used to allow the project to proceed. They claim the provision undermines environmental safeguards and due process.
The SALEX project aims to decongest traffic in Manila but has faced opposition from environmental groups. The Supreme Court has yet to rule on the petition, which could set a precedent for infrastructure projects affecting urban greenery.