A regional court has ordered an immediate halt to quarrying operations in Barangay Guindarohan, Minglanilla, warning that nearby families face a "grave risk of death" from potential landslides. The emergency order aims to protect residents after years of reports regarding ground cracks and unstable slopes in the area.
Emergency Court Order Issued
On May 4, 2026, Presiding Judge Dennis C. Larrobis of Regional Trial Court Branch 76 issued a 72-hour Temporary Environmental Protection Order (TEPO). The order specifically directs Jomara Konstruckt Corporation (JKC) and Jomara Agri Foods and Supply Corporation (JAFSC) to cease all excavation and removal of soil, rocks, sand, and gravel.
The court action was made public on Tuesday by environmental lawyer Ben Cabrido, who represents a group of concerned Minglanilla residents. These residents, led by Annellyn Flores and 12 others, took legal action to stop activities they believe are causing ground instability.
Reasons for the Operations Halt
The court case alleges that the companies have been clearing land, cutting trees, and using heavy equipment to develop a motor pool and a goat farm. According to court records, these activities may have destabilized the ground.
Under the court's strict directive, the Jomara companies must:
- Stop all quarrying and digging in Barangay Guindarohan.
- Halt all land clearing and tree cutting.
- Cease using heavy equipment that could weaken the slopes.
- Suspend construction on the goat farm and motor pool projects.
Threat to Life and Health
In his ruling, Judge Larrobis highlighted the extreme danger facing local families, including children and the elderly. He stated that the court is "highly convinced" that continuing quarrying poses an immediate threat to the lives of those living within 60 meters of the excavation zones.
The judge noted a high probability of landslides because the earth has been heavily disturbed. Given the urgency, the order was issued "ex-parte," meaning it was granted immediately without waiting for a full hearing from the companies involved.
Years of Warnings
This legal battle did not arise suddenly. Government agencies, including the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB), have been flagging ground cracks in Guindarohan since December 2021.
Reports from 2022 confirmed that the soil in the area is weathered and weak. Inspectors found "high-wall cuts" as deep as 15 meters that lacked proper safety structures, significantly increasing the risk of land collapse. While 18 families were evacuated in 2022, residents claim that quarrying and hauling continued despite the dangers.
What Happens Next?
The current stop order is a temporary measure to prevent immediate disaster. A summary hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, May 6, 2026, where the court will decide if the quarrying halt should be extended while the full environmental case proceeds. For the residents of Guindarohan, the decision could mean the difference between a safe home and a catastrophic landslide.
