On April 21, 2025, a petition was submitted by a group of residents, environmental advocates, and community organizations to the Supreme Court (SC) in an effort to stop the ongoing construction of the Samal Island-Davao City Connector (SIDC) Project.
Atty. Manuel Quibod, who serves as the dean of the College of Law at Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU) and is a co-counsel for the petitioners, stated that the purpose of the petition is to cease construction activities that have already caused damage to two vital coral ecosystems. He was referring to the Paradise Reef in Samal and the Hizon Marine Protected Area in Davao City.
The petitioners expressed that they do not oppose the SIDC; however, they seek to move the bridge construction to prevent additional damage to the coral ecosystems. This sentiment was also reiterated by Atty. Mark Peñalver, the executive director of Interfacing Development Interventions for Sustainability (Idis).
On July 1, the Supreme Court finally issued a Writ of Kalikasan against the SIDC proponents, which are led by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
A Writ of Kalikasan (a Filipino term for “nature”) serves as a legal remedy within Philippine law, safeguarding an individual’s constitutional right to a healthy environment. This is articulated in Section 16, Article II of the Philippine Constitution, which asserts that the “state shall protect and advance the right of the people to a balanced and healthful ecology in accord with the rhythm and harmony of nature.”
This writ is analogous to the writ of amparo and the writ of habeas corpus. However, it specifically focuses on the right to a healthy environment, distinguishing it from the protection of constitutional rights. The Writ of Kalikasan has its origins in the Philippines, while the other two writs are derived from European and Latin American legal traditions.
“The organizations supporting the Petition welcome the decision of the Supreme Court En Banc to issue a Writ of Kalikasan… in response to the petition filed by environmental advocates… This is a critical affirmation of the public’s right to a balanced and healthful ecology, enshrined under Article II, Section 16 of the Philippine Constitution,” said the petitioners in a statement.
“The Court’s issuance of the writ sends a strong signal: no development, no matter how grand or well-funded, is above the law – especially when it threatens the environment and the lives and livelihoods of communities,” they added.
This is what Acting Davao City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte said of the issuance of the Writ of Kalikasan: “I respect the decision of the Supreme Court… The rule of law must be upheld, and we will follow the legal process. I also recognize the right of every Filipino to a balanced and healthy environment.”
However, Baste contended that the main purpose of building the bridge is “to serve ordinary Dabawenyos and Samaleños by providing safer, faster, and more affordable travel between our cities. This project promises reduced transport costs, increased trade and tourism, and more jobs for local communities.”
These people have been waiting for many years to see the bridge come to fruition. “It is disappointing that a project intended to benefit the majority is now facing delays due to environmental concerns raised selectively by those whose business interests are most affected,” Baste said.
He asserted that safeguarding the environment is crucial. “I fully support sustainable development and responsible stewardship of natural resources. This project has undergone environmental studies, secured clearances, and was designed to minimize its impact.”
The DPWH, one of the respondents named, also acknowledged the issuance. “The DPWH assures the public that it will address the petition in accordance with all applicable legal procedures and environmental regulations,” it said in a statement.
“Despite the pending petition, the department remains committed to delivering this vital infrastructure project for the benefit of the Filipino people,” it added.
The DPWH reported that as of June 2025, construction progress has reached 38%, with all foundation pillars completed on the Samal side and in the marine section, while works on the Davao side are nearing completion.
“We emphasize that, prior to the commencement of construction, the SIDC Project secured all required government permits, including an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC),” the DPWH said.
The DENR grants an ECC to projects or activities that may significantly affect the environment. The ECC verifies that the project adheres to the country’s environmental laws and regulations, and that the Environmental Impact Assessment encompasses all required management plans.
For its part, the regional office of the environment department also issued a statement: “As the DENR’s regional regulatory authority in Davao Region, we reaffirm our steadfast commitment to uphold environmental laws and ensure that all projects within our jurisdiction comply fully with the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) System and other applicable legal requirements.”
“We are fully prepared to cooperate with the judicial proceedings and will provide all relevant technical documents, environmental assessments, and compliance records as may be required. The DENR remains an evidence-based institution committed to promoting development that is both sustainable and environmentally responsible.
“The DENR remains a dedicated partner of the Filipino people in advancing inclusive and sustainable development, consistent with our environmental protection mandate and the well-being of present and future generations.”
