Gina: Order was appropriate

This refers to the article, “DENR chief mislead on Bataan oil spill” (Business, 1/9/17).

I must take exception to claims that I was misled on the issue because what was issued was a cease and desist order on the ash spill and not the oil spill coming from SMC Consolidated Power Corp. The order is appropriate to prevent the spread of skin diseases that have affected some 500 children and adults living in the area. The pictures of the affected residents were appalling.

Since I assumed office at the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, it has been my position that the pursuit of industrial development should not compromise the environment and, most importantly, should not cause human suffering.

REGINA PAZ L. LOPEZ, secretary, Department of Environment and Natural Resources