MANILA, Philippines – A group of law students has filed a petition before the Supreme Court challenging the constitutionality of provisions in the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Code that exempt PPP projects from temporary environmental protection orders (TEPOs) and similar legal remedies.
The petitioners argue that Section 12 of Republic Act No. 11966, the PPP Code, violates the constitutional right to a balanced and healthful ecology by insulating PPP projects from TEPOs, which are crucial for preventing environmental harm during litigation. They also question the provision that allows the government to assume contractual obligations of private partners, potentially burdening taxpayers.
The Supreme Court has yet to issue a statement on the petition. The case highlights ongoing tensions between infrastructure development and environmental protection in the Philippines.
