By Marie Joy S. Carbungco | November 27, 2025

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga (PIA) — The provincial government of Pampanga has mediated in the dispute between the Porac the local government and members of the Association of  Porac Sand and Gravel Quarry Operators Inc. after the group announced a voluntary suspension of operations, affecting around 40 operators and 850 haulers since Friday night.

In a statement, the association said its members stopped quarry activities due to persistent pressure from the local government, including delays in the release of municipal clearances needed for legal operations.

The group also raised concerns over what they consider as excessive and unfair taxes resulting in double taxation, as well as rapidly changing municipal processes that they claimed had not existed under previous administrations dating back to 1986.

These issues, the group stressed, have created uncertainties and delays that disrupt their daily operations and add to the financial burden which makes it increasingly difficult for them to sustain their business.

The situation intensified after reports circulated that Porac had begun applying a revised ecological tax scheme of P100 per 12-cubic-meter load from the previous P100 per truck fee.

The group lamented this, citing that the quarry industry has long been a major contributor to Porac’s economy and a source of livelihood for many families.

Porac Mayor Jaime Capil denied the allegations raised by the operators’ association, saying that there is no double taxation, overcharging, and stop-operation order issued by the local government unit (LGU).

He added that the LGU did not shut down any operator, adding that quarry sites in Porac remain open and operational for those who opt not to participate in the voluntary suspension.

Capil also noted that no formal complaint from any operator was ever filed with his office and that the LGU has always maintained open communication channels for any concerns from the operators.

The mayor also cited comparative data showing that the town’s current collections remain higher than those recorded in the past six to nine years and asserted that Porac sand remains among the most affordable in the region, contrary to claims that LGU policies make operation costly or difficult.

Despite conflicting claims, the provincial government estimates that the voluntary suspension may delay more than P40 million in revenues, which the Capitol could use to deliver essential health programs and services to the Kapampangans.

The provincial government also urges the quarry operators to bring their concerns before the Provincial Board, so they can formally present their position and establish solutions to protect both livelihoods and local governance.

It also expressed readiness to facilitate dialogue between the two parties, highlighting that open communication is crucial to resolve the issue and preserve the stability of the quarry industry which is a major contributor to the province’s economy.

Data from the Office of the Provincial Treasurer show that from 2019 to 2025, quarry operations across the province generated more than P5 billion, with Porac’s sand recognized among the highest quality in Southeast Asia.  (CLJD/MJSC, PIA Region 3-Pampanga)