ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT (EIA)

A PROPOSED 4-STOREY APARTMENT

BUILDING WITH 1 BASEMENT

Project Location : Chinese Village, Pugius

La Trinidad Benguet

Prepared by:

Ar. Ryan M. Benaoe,EnP,MAEHP

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Project Description

I. Basic Project Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

II. Project Proponents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
III. Background . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
IV. Access to Project Site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
V. Access to Project Site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
VI. General location of the Project . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Impact Assessment

I. Impact identification, Evaluation and Prediction . . . . . . . 4

II. Impacts Relating to Project Design and Construction . . . . . . 4
III. Impacts Relating to Project Operation and Maintenance . . . . . 6
IV. Impacts which will Not Occur . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
V. Impacts of the Environment on the Project . . . . . . . . . . . 6
VI. Do-nothing Scenario . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . 7
VII. Unavoidable and Residual Impacts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
VIII. Cumulative effects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
IX. Uncertainty and Risks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
X. Primary and Secondary Impact Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
XI. Physical Environment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
XII. Biological Environment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
XIII. Socio-economic Environment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
XIV. Human and Economic Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Impact Assessment: Design and Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

General Description of Construction Works

I. Architectural works . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
II. Pre-construction Phase . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Executive Summary

I. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
II. Project Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
III. Methodology . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
IV. Existing Environmental Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
V. Impact Assessment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
VI. Social Acceptability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
VII. Environmental Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
VIII. Conclusion and Recommendation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

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 Project Description
I. Basic Project Information

II. Project Proponents

The project proponent is Mr. Daniel D. Afuyog, a commercial ship captain,

and a resident of La Trinidad, Benguet. Mr. Afuyog imagines the proposed
building as one of his retirement investments at the same time a home for
his family of six.

III. Background

The proposed Four (4) storey building with One (1) basement proposed by
Mr. Afuyog will house eight (8) apartment units that will be situated on
the basement up to the third floor. The fourth floor will be reserved as
a private residence for the proponent and family.

There shall be some undivided appurtenant interest in the residence which

is part of the so-called Common areas. Included in the common areas are
the stairways, parking facilities, and open areas.

The apartments are designed to provide privacy, ambiance, safety, and

comfort to tenants.
Its features conform to international standards and are designed for
comfort, while its professionally-run operations are largely influenced
by the cultural values of the location.

IV. Access to Project Site

The proposed project site is accessible via private road that is

connected to the Pico-Puguis Road, a secondary national road. Public
utility vehicles, such as jeepneys, are active within the location of the
project.

V. General location of the Project

The proposed project is located within the Chinese Village at Puguis, La

Trinidad, Benguet, about one (1) kilometer from the Municipal Hall,
Public Market, and Central Business District.

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 Impact Assessment
I. Impact identification, Evaluation and Prediction

Key issues addressed by this impact analysis revolve around direct and
indirect impacts during Project design, construction and operation,
including the Project’s social acceptability.

II. Impacts Relating to Project Design and Construction

Identified environmental impacts during the Project’s design and

construction phases are listed. The rest of this section provides
elaboration on the impacts.

Physical Environment

Air Quality

The construction activities that are to be done for the project will
definitely cause decreased air quality within the site and the immediate
neighbors. This may cause discomfort for workers (within the site) and
the occupants of buildings adjacent to the site with respiratory
illnesses or dust allergies. Although this may be a minor consideration,
there is little that can be done about it as this is a direct result of
the construction activities that should be done to complete the project.

Noise & Vibration

Construction often generates community noise/vibration complaints

despite the limited timeframe over which it takes place. Complaints
typically arise from interference with people’s activities, especially
when the community has no clear understanding of the extent or duration
of the construction. Misunderstandings can arise when the contractor is
considered to be insensitive to the community eventhough he/she believes
he is in compliance with the local ordinances.

The occurrence of air contamination due to dust and noise pollution due
to the construction activities is however, localized, that is, mostly
confined within the Project site. Earthworks by heavy equipment will
definitely add to the noise in the project site and around (barangay).
While dozing is not a priority method in earthworks, the issue on proper
spoils disposal must be addressed by the general contractor.

The transport of construction materials in and out of the Project site

will certainly add to the volume of vehicular traffic in the vicinity,
although not significantly. More than this, however, a more critical

4
 issue is the proper storage and disposal of materials and debris. The
general contractors will not set up work camps within the Project site as
living quarters of laborers and support staff. Thus, possible questions
on sanitation and waste management within the Project site during
construction may not crop up.

There are no natural springs within the Project site. Moreover,

construction activities will not disrupt existing services in the area,
particularly water from the Baguio Water District (BWD).

Biological Environment

One key issue is the preservation, if not the enhancement, of the present
vegetative cover of the Project site or estate. Around 20 pine and 1
alnus trees will be cut, and a number of saplings will be transferred
elsewhere within estate.

Unless proper care is adopted, like setting-up fences, other trees and
plants may also be harmed by the movement and storage of heavy equipment
and materials.

Socio-economic Environment

Key issues revolve around maintaining peace and order and sanitation, as
new faces and a concentration of workers in (barangay). A possible
concern is the presence of workers hired from other places in the area
who may not be aware of, or are not sensitive to, the local customs and
nuances. This can be a source of irritants between the Project workers
and the community. Also this situation can be exacerbated by uncontrolled
drinking of alcoholic beverages by both the workers and local residents
within and around the Project site.

Although the general contractor will be required by the Project Proponent

to provide living quarters to the workers in a house to be rented within
the community, provisions for decent toilet facilities are needed within
the Project site. Unless decent toilet facilities are provided in the
construction site and in their lodging quarters, workers may be exposed
to faecal/oral and other related diseases.

The Project construction will provide additional income to local

residents if workers will be hired from the community. This will also
enhance the acceptability of the project to the community.

III. Impacts Relating to Project Operation and Maintenance

Identified impacts during the Project’s operation phase is presented in

the (table/data).
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 Physical Environment

Moderate and significant impacts of the Project once operational concern

water supply. There is an assurance from the LTWD that there is enough
water supply without disrupting the normal supply to the community.
However, in anticipation of any disruption of the water supply to the
community due to some unforeseen circumstances, the Project Proponent is
planning to develop a deep well in the estate. This plan will have to get
the approval of LTWD, based on a technical evaluation which the utility
provider will undertake for the purpose. Should the planned deep well
push through, LTWD will manage its operation.

Garbage and other waste will be generated. However, it is not anticipated

that these will have a big impact on the existing waste management
situation.

The operation of the project will not likely have a big impact on air
quality in the (barangay), due to exhaust emissions from vehicles.

Biological environment

Maintaining 30% of the estate’s area as open and green space will make a
positive impact on the environment, biologically and aesthetically.

Socio-economic Environment

The hiring of local residents for various positions in the operation and
maintenance of the building will create a positive impact on the
community in terms of additional source of employment and income for the
people of the barangay. The condominium residents, through the
Condominium Corporation, must maintain close liaison with local officials
to ensure their integration into the community.

IV. Impacts which will Not Occur

The project will not involve ejection of squatters from the site as there
are none. Nor will the Project involve massive cutting of trees since 70%
of the estate wills remain open and green. The barangay, as well the
entire Municipality of La Trinidad, is composed of mixed ancestry (both
from the Cordillera Region and the lowlands); thus, the presence of
additional lowlanders in the area will not have deleterious effects on
Cordillera traditions and customs.

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V. Impacts of the Environment on the Project

Benguet and the rest of the Cordillera are known to experience extreme
rainfall. This may affect the Project especially during its construction
phase. As in other parts of CAR, La Trinidad lies on a seismically active
region. However, based on a site investigation conducted by Mines and
Geosciences Bureau of DENR and a geotechnical study done by a private
contractor, no faults were found within the Project site.

VI. Do-nothing Scenario

As mentioned in earlier chapters, the population of Baguio City is ever

growing, and with it the expansion of human settlements and built-up
areas. New settlers in the Municipality will not be coming from the
interior Cordillera only but, quite significantly, also from the
lowlands, especially from the growing middle class. The influxes of
people into the Municipality have, among others,

 Put a strain on available space for settlement

 Pushed real estate prices
 Spawned squatting
 Put a strain on services

With or without the Project, these trends in the LGU’s problems will
continue, unless a more rational and workable (i.e., suggesting
stronger political will) approach to urban planning shall be employed.

The Project will have an insignificant impact on the above trends in

the City. However, it will still help in providing housing
alternatives for people looking for one in the City.

VII. Unavoidable and Residual Impacts

The principal unavoidable direct and indirect impacts of the Project are:

 Limited tree cutting

 Limited earthworks
 Cutting into the water supply of the barangay from LTWD
 Additional garbage and sewage into the waste management system

VIII. Cumulative effects

None of significance

IX. Uncertainty and Risks

None of significance

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X. Primary and Secondary Impact Areas

The primary impact area of the Project is the area that will be directly,
affected by the construction activities. This area is Sitio Chinese
Village Puguis, La Trinidad, Benguet

The secondary impact area is the area indirectly affected by construction

activities, including areas affected by the socio-economic activities
that might be brought about by the Project. In particular, this is the
rest of Barangay Puguis, La Trinidad, Benguet

XI. Physical Environment

Regional/Provincial Setting
La Trinidad, Benguet is under the administrative jurisdiction of the
Provincial Government, it is within the political boundaries of the
province of Benguet. It falls within the administrative jurisdiction of
CAR. The Municipality lies on the southern section of the Gran Cordillera
mountain range, better known these days as the Cordillera Administrative
Region, which is made up to the provinces of Abra, Apayao, Ifugao,
Kalinga, Mt. Province, and Baguio City.

Climate

Benguet, experiences pronounced dry season from November to April, and

wet season the remaining months of the year. The average daily
temperatures in the City change very little throughout the year, ranging
between 18 -20 degrees Celsius.

Hydrology

There is no known watershed within the project site. No study on aquifer

within the estate has been initiated as of date by the Project Manager.

Air Quality

Air quality within the Barangay is good, with the exception of the
barangay road where exhaust emissions from diesel-powered vehicles spoil
air quality.

XII. Biological Environment

The urbanized areas of the Municipality have very low bio-diversity. The
benguet Pine is the dominant species. Alnus trees have also been
8
 introduced in the City, especially in degraded areas. No commercial
cutting of forest resources is allowed in La Trinidad, Benguet. Cutting
of trees may be allowed only on a limited scale, and for reasons as
protecting lives and properties, and infrastructure development.

XIII. Socio-economic Environment

Population

According to the 2015 census, the Municipality has a population of

129,133 people

Ethnicity and Religion

Ethnicity

Information gathered from the Municipal Planning and Development Office

disclosed that there were 79 languages and dialects spoken in
Municipality as of 1995. Predominant was Ilocano (50.00%), followed by
Tagalog (22.74%). Kankanaey, the language spoken by people from northern
Benguet and southern Mt. Province, accounted for 9.07%, while English,
1.3%. Ibaloi, which was the language of the original settlers of the City
was just one of the 75 other dialects and languages spoken in the
Municipality.

Religion

There were reportedly 32 religious denominations in the Municipality as

of 1995. Roman Catholics accounted for 80.40% of the population, while
Episcopalians accounted for 5.3% and Iglesia ni Cristo, 3.5%

XIV. Human and Economic Development

Health and Sanitation

A trend in the improving health situation of the people of the

Municipality is evidenced by the continuing decline in the crude death
rate, infant mortality rate, and maternal mortality rate from 1988 to
1996. From 4.67 in 1988, the crude death rate in the Municipality
decreased to 3.41 in 1996. Similarly, infant mortality rate decreased
from 12.57 in 1988 to 9.91 in 1996, while maternal mortality rate
decreased from 0.36 in 1988 to 0.34 in 1996. Moreover, of the 37,803
households reported in the City in 1991, 90.05% were said to have access
to potable water, and 90.92% had sanitary toilets.

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Economics

La Trinidad supplies most of the Philippines' strawberries[45] and cut

flowers which include roses. The La Trinidad Vegetable Trading Post is
visited by wholesalers and traders of vegetables from other provinces.
The presence of the Benguet State University in the municipality serves
as a boost to agricultural research and development in the region.[50]

The town landed on the Guinness Book of World Records for baking the
world's largest strawberry shortcake, at 21,213.40 pounds (9,622.24 kg),
at the La Trinidad Strawberry Festival on March 20, 2004.

Its proximity to the city of Baguio attracts tourists, primarily to the

strawberry fields in the valley, and lesser to the Benguet Provincial
Capitol and the Rose Gardens of barangay Bahong.

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11
 Impact Assessment: Design and Construction

ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS ON CHARACTERISTICS IMPACT ASSESSMENT

ACTION OR FEATURE ENVIRONMENT
Positive/ Duration Scale Reversibility Insignificant Moderate Significant
Negative
Physical environment
Air quality  Increased dust - 1 year Localized Yes 
content in the air
due to
excavations,
cutting,
demolition, and
other
construction
activities
 Introduction of
fumes and odor
emitted from
various
construction
equipment and
materials (ie.
Paint)
 Increased
Carbon
Monoxide in the
air because of
traffic
Congestion due
to transportation
of materials and
equipment in
and out of the
project site

12
 Air quality  Increased dust - 1 year Localized Yes 
content in the air
due to
excavations,
cutting,
demolition, and
other
construction
activities
 Introduction of
fumes and odor
emitted from
various
construction
equipment and
materials (ie.
Paint)
 Increased
Carbon
Monoxide in the
air because of
traffic
Congestion due
to transportation
of materials and
equipment in
and out of the
project site
Noise and vibration  Temporary - 1 year Localized Yes 
inconvenience
during
construction due
to the use of
heavy
equipment,
power tools, and
presence of men
at work for most
hours (including
nighttime)
Water supply from 13  No spring found + 1 year Localized N/A 
natural springs or LTWD in the project
site; project will
not interrupt
supply from
 ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS ON CHARACTERISTICS IMPACT ASSESSMENT
ACTION OR FEATURE ENVIRONMENT
Positive/ Duration Scale Reversibilit Insignificant Moderate Significant
Construction Materials Negative y
-transporting
Biological materials
environment May add to noise and - 1 year Localized Yes 
in and out of project site dust pollution,
Site Development
congestion of vehicular
Approximately 9 pine - Permanen Within No 
traffic Localized
trees will be cut to give t site
-storage of materials and - 1 year Yes
way for the project
disposal of used May add to dust 
materials (cement bags, pollution and
Existing shrubs and
fabricators) significantly add to the
other vegetation such
volume of garbage from
as wild sunflowers and
the area
-earthworks and wild grass will also be
construction activities removed to make way - Within Yes 
for the project Permanen site
t
Socio-economic Environment
Mobilization of
construction
workers/staff
-new faces (outside) in Workers/staff hired - Short Localized Yes 
the community outside of the
community may be
insensitive to existing
customs and traditions
of the area which may
result to strained
relations with local
residents. Localized
-drinking of alcoholic May lead to the - 1 year Yes 
beverages disruption of peace
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS ON CHARACTERISTICS IMPACT ASSESSMENT
ACTION OR FEATURE ENVIRONMENT
Positive/ Duration Scale Reversibilit Insignificant Moderate Significant
Negative y
Socio-economic Environment
Health and safety
-occupational health and Accidents involving - 1 year Localized Yes 
safety construction workers,
14 including illness due to
dust exposure, may
happen if proper
measures are not
adopted Within
 Impact Assessment: Operation and Maintenance

15
 ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS ON CHARACTERISTICS IMPACT ASSESSMENT
ACTION OR FEATURE ENVIRONMENT
Positive/ Duration Scale Reversibility Insignificant Moderate Significant
Negative
Physical Environment
Water supply
-from BWD The building will - Indefinite Localize Yes 
compete with local d
residents for water
supplied by LTWD

-from own deep well Proposed deep well may - Uncertain No 

deplete the barangay’s City-
aquifer deposit which wide
consequently might dry
up existing natural
springs in the area
Waste management
-garbage The building will - Indefinite City- Difficult 
contribute to the wide
volume of garbage in the
Municipality

-sewage Waste water and refuse - Indefinite City- Difficult 

generated from the wide
building are added strain
to the Municipality’s
capacity to handle its
waste management
program

Air quality Exhaust emissions from - Indefinite Localize Difficult 

additional vehicles in the d
community will affect air
quality in the barangay
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS ON CHARACTERISTICS IMPACT ASSESSMENT
ACTION OR FEATURE ENVIRONMENT
Positive/ Duration Scale Reversibility Insignificant Moderate Significant
Negative
Biological Environment
Site development 16 At least 70% of the Total - Permanent Localize No 
Lot Area (TLA) is paved. d
This will contribute to
the barangay’s total
impervious area and
 GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF CONSTRUCTION WORK

I. Architectural works

Concrete formwork

Unless otherwise specified, the minimum thickness of form shall be 12mm

(1/2”) thick plywood, free from warps and gross deformities, sufficiently
braced with solid lumber, and applied with form release agent at its
casting surface before each casting

Concrete reinforcement

Reinforcing steel bars shall be in accordance with ASTM, grade 60 for

16mm diameter or larger and grade 40 for 12mm diameter or smaller, and
grade 16 for galvanized iron (G.I.) tie wire at joints or laps of placed
reinforcements as indicated in the plans.

Cast in Place Concrete

a. Cement
It will be a choice of the following brands: Union, Republic, Rizal,
or any approved equal. However, only one brand shall be used for the
whole structural and masonry works.

b. Aggregates
Well graded, hard particles of gravel or crushed rocks, 25mm (1”)
diameter maximum, for slab, and 19mm (3/4”) diameter maximum, for
columns and beams, will be used. Clean and washed sand, preferably
from Porac, Pampanga or Plaridel, Bulacan, or an approved equal, will
likewise be used.

c. Concrete Mixtures
For suspended floor slabs, columns, beams and reinforced concrete
wall, 20.7 Mpa (3000 psi) will be used.

Unit Masonry

The Project will use 1,000 psi machine-made concrete hollow blocks (CHB)
for all bearing load and 700 psi machine-made concrete hollow blocks for
all non-bearing load. Also, class “A” 1:2 mixture for all mortar needed
for laying CHB, or clay tile, and all plastering works will be used. On
the other hand, a 1:2:4 concrete mixture of sand and pea gravel shall be
used as fillers of CHB, or clay tile cells.

17
Structural Steel Fabrication

Mild steel sheets or plates, as indicated in the plans, shall be used for
miscellaneous stiffeners, bearing, and anchorage connectors or straps.
Also, mild steel angles, flat bars, square bars, channels, U and other
section C-purlins with stiffened flanges will be used in standard solid
sections for building roof framing, overhead anchorage of folding doors,
grill works, miscellaneous fabricated mounting brackets, straps, dowels,
frames and connectors.

Thermal and Moisture Protection

a. Water proofing
Cementicious waterproofing shall be applied as per manufacturer’s
directions and specifications. For interior walls and floor of the
water reservoirs, porcelain enameled epoxy shall be used.

b. Water repellent
Clear water repellent with hydrocarbon plasticizer, which is likewise
non-gloss and oxidation-resistant, will be used.

c. Sheet Metal Roofing

Grade 26, pre-painted, steel rib metal standing seam roofing shall be
used and installed in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications.

Sanitary and Plumbing System

Water System

The source of water is the main line of the Baguio Water District (BWD)
along Gibraltar Road. There is also a proposed deep well to be developed
inside the property and which will be operated by the BWD. Negotiations
for this deep well have yet to be initiated, however. When constructed,
there will be an independent piping from the deep well towards the water
reservoir of the Pine Summit Residential Condominium.

Sewer system

The system is to provide independent internal sewer collectors that will

be drained through a sludge holding tank, connected to the existing sewer
system along the barangay road. The estimated sewer collector size is a
200mm diameter pipe with an average sewage flow of 40,000 gpd. There will
be eleven (11) sewer manholes inside the Project. Domestic sewage flow is
estimated to be 80% of total water consumption.

Sanitary drainage

The sanitary drainage system shall use the fixture unit method. The
minimum slope for horizontal branches is 1%. Sewerage flow is calculated
to be 70% of the full amount of water demand of the building population.
Sanitary waste generated above the ground floor shall be drained by
18
gravity to the nearest service sewer manhole. All fixtures and cleanouts
shall not exceed 15.00 M apart from straight horizontal run sewer line,
all kitchen sinks are to be provided with grease trap.

Storm Drainage System

The storm drainage system is designed for an average rainfall intensity

of 10 inches per hour. Decks, ledges and areas exposed to the weather
shall be provided with appropriate type of drains. The minimum slope for
pipes shall not be less than ½ %. Also, the storm drainage shall be of
the gravity collection type.

Disposal method for the roof drainage shall be the gravity type system.
Drains will be installed, and storm water shall be directed into
downspouts which are connected to the service storm drain. The drainage
collection system will discharge into the existing drainage line of the
barangay.

Fire Protection and Life Safety System

A Fire Protection and Alarm System (FPAS) shall be provided to include

conduits and fittings, wiring, manual fire alarm pull stations, automatic
smoke and/or heat detectors, alarm devices, fireman’s telephone and
control panel.

Manual pull stations shall be located at all points of exit from the
building and at points of exit from every floor, including the basements,
along the route of egress from the buildings. Additional fire alarm
manual pull stations shall be provided so that no point on a floor shall
be more than sixty (60) meters from a manual station.

Automatic smoke detectors shall be used where automatic fire detector is

desired. The use of either ionization or photoelectric type of smoke
detectors depends on the effectiveness of each type of detector to detect
the possible product of combustion (smoke) in an area or room being
protected.

Electrical Works

Load Densities

Minimum load densities for lighting and receptacle loads shall be based
on the Philippine Electrical Code (PEC) for the various areas in the
Project.

a. Lighting Loads
For each room shall have at least one (1) ceiling light outlet. For
other areas, ceiling light outlets, and light luminaries, shall be
provided to attain illumination levels indicated in the PEC. Specialty
lighting shall be installed as indicated by the Interior Designer
(ID).

19
b. Receptacle Loads
Receptacle or convenience outlet loads shall be on the requirements of
the PEC, particularly on the spacing of receptacles, measured along
the walls of a room, or based on the layout provided by the ID, if
any. Kitchen receptacle, or convenience outlet loads, shall be
circuited solely for the kitchen area. These outlets are for kitchen
small appliance loads only.

Equipment loads

Equipment loads, such air conditioners, fans, heaters and pumps, shall be
based on the design ratings given by the various design disciples.

Illumination Levels

Where applicable; illumination levels will be in accordance with the PEC.

Load Computations

Load computations shall be based on the PEC. Where required by the Code,
sizing of wires protective devices shall be made with 25% added
provisions for continuous operation of loads. For motor loads, applicable
provisions of the PEC shall be followed. Reasonable and practicable spare
capacities for lighting and appliance branch circuits, feeder service
conductors, transformers and protective devices shall be provided. Under
no circumstance will spare capacity be less than 10% over computed loads.

Voltage Drop Calculations

As much as practicable, voltage drops shall conform to the requirements

of the PEC. Deviations shall only be allowed with proper authorization
from parties concerned.

Short Circuit Calculations

Short circuit calculations shall be done to determine the interrupting

rating of protective devices. Short form method of calculation shall be
allowed only with proper authorization from parties concerned.

Incoming Power Supply

Incoming power shall be from the Benguet Electric Cooperative (BENECO) at

23KV, 3 phase, through overhead high voltage lines. Power will be served
from the barangay Road.
23 KV underground line shall terminate at pad mounted distribution
transformers. These transformers shall be provided by the Project Owner
which will include surge arresters.
20
Service Equipment

Each tenant shall be provided with his own service entrance facility,
rated at 240 volts, single phase. Service entrance facility shall consist
of service entrance cables, service disconnect, service overcurrent and
short circuit protection, including power consumption metering.

Power Consumption Metering (BENECO)

Metering equipment shall be provided by the BENECO for the Project. All
meters shall be located on the main floor of the building. Ammeter,
voltmeter and KwHr meter will be provided at the main service equipment
(MDP).

For the main distribution panel, feeder shall be run to meter centers in
the Projects main level of the building where tenant service sub-feeders
shall be tapped.

Wiring Methods

All wirings shall be inside PVC conduits. No exposed wiring shall be

used. No homeruns shall be wired in a common conduit run. A ground wire,
sized in accordance with the PEC, shall be provided for all wiring (i.e.
service entrances, feeders and branch circuits), and properly grounded.
Wiring for Generator Power System shall not be mixed with that for normal
power.

Generator Power Distribution System

A generator power distribution system shall be provided for both standby

and emergency power supply. These shall be one (1) unit of diesel engine-
driven generator set to service the building. The generator shall operate
at 1,800 rpm and 60 HZ. Automatic transfer switches of circuit breaker
type shall be provided, with motor operated electrical and mechanical
interlocks. Provisions shall be given to automatically switch tenet
generator supplied loads back to normal power once this is restored.
Switching relays for this purpose shall be located at the tenant’s unit.
Battery powered emergency light fixtures shall be provided at stairways,
corridors/hallways and lobbies.

Grounding System

The grounding system shall include copperclad steel ground rods and bare
copper conductor interconnecting the rods. Appropriate copper alloy
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ground clamps shall be provided to connect ground wire to ground rods.
Ground rods shall installed inside ground wells. The main service
equipment, dry-type transformers and non- current carrying metal
enclosures shall be connected to the grounding system, including other
system grounds system, including other system grounds, unless otherwise
indicated.

Lighting Protection System

Lighting protection system shall be provided to include air terminal,

conduits, base copper grounding down conductor, coppercled ground rod,
copper alloy ground clamp, and necessary termination and mounting
materials.

Landscaping

Vehicular Flow

There will be a longer driveway at the main entrance in order to minimize

slope at approximately 12%. The driveway will also be wider near the
guardhouse ( about 8.0 meters wide)

Hardscapes

Hardscapes will also be in curvilinear layout and will have less

repetition in form, since one curve is different from the other. This
creates more interesting spaces.

Softscapes

More temperate plants will be used and no tropical plants. Deciduous

trees will be planted on selected spots for accent.

I. Pre-construction Phase

All permits, licenses and certificates needed to ensure the unhampered

construction of the condominium complex once it gets underway shall be
secured for the Project.

Construction Phase

Schedule

Tree Cutting

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Construction Activities

As in any major construction project, works will be undertaken on several

fronts by the contractors, involving,, activities like mobilization and
establishment of offices and workshops, confirmation of design, materials
processing, excavation and earth disposal, slope stabilization and
protection, drainage and structures, building construction, finishing
works, etc.

Equipment to be Used

In view of existing environmental Laws and policies, not to mention the

provisions of the ECC which, anticipatedly, would put emphasis on
minimizing possible negative effects of the Project on the natural
environment, there will be strict control over earthworks and spoil
disposal. This will thus reduce the emphasis on dozing in favor of
excavators and dump trucks.

Earthworks Volume

A total of 14,237 m3 of earth will be excavated, of which 10,000 m3 will

be re-used as backfill. Part of the terms of contract with the general
contractor is to dispose of the spoils in areas covered by a DENR permit.

Support Services and Requirements

The project will require the setting-up of offices and workshops within
the Project Site. Moreover, living quarters for workers will be provided
by the contractors but will not be located within the immediate
peripheries of the construction site.

Source of Construction Materials

Gravel and sand to be used for the construction will come from suppliers
whose quarries are covered by an ECC.

Labor and Skill Requirements

The total labor requirement has not yet been determine at this point, but
it will run into a few hundreds. Whenever feasible, local labor will be
tapped.

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 Executive Summary
I. Introduction

For the Project Proponents to be able to execute their project, an

Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) is required by the government
agencies responsible in issuing permits for the same. Moreover, since the
project is located in La Trinidad, Benguet, an area classified as an
environmentally critical area by the Department of Environmental and
Natural Resources – Cordillera Administrative Region (DENR-CAR), an
Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) had to be undertaken as a
requirement for the processing of the Proponent’s application for an ECC
with the DENR-CAR.

II. Project Description

The proposed Four (4) storey building with One (1) basement proposed by
Mr. Afuyog will house eight (8) apartment units that will be situated on
the basement up to the third floor. The fourth floor will be reserved as
a private residence for the proponent and family.

III. Methodology

The methodology used is the Predictive or simulation method.

IV. Existing Environmental Conditions

La Trinidad, Benguet is the center of education, culture and commerce in

Benguet. As such, the Municipality is a complementary destination of
tourists, both local and foreign, as it also serves as the most
convenient entry point into the interior Cordillera. But more than this,
the Municipality is an in-migration area, as more and more people from
CAR and the lowlands, particularly the Ilocos and Central Luzon, opt to
make Benguet their second home. Thus, the population of the Municipality
is ever increasing, putting a great strain on its remaining open space,
as well as its public service.

The emphasis of the national government to spur economic growth in the

whole country and in Northern Luzon, such as the designation of La
Trinidad, Benguet within the Northwest Luzon Growth Quadrangle, is a
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 welcome development. This development thrust, however, will not ease the
problems associated with rapid urbanization now being experienced by the
Municipality. A more workable and efficient urban development plan is in
order, and, undoubtedly, this will require, among others, a rational
housing program. Such will call for a more efficient maximization of
every possible open space for the Municipality’s growing population.

The Municipality is also within a region that is not only rich in

cultural tradition, but is also within DENR’s so-called environmentally
critical area. Bio-diversity, especially in urban centers of CAR, is
practically eradicated, while traditional institutions and customs are
continuously in danger of being supplanted with alien values and world
views.

Thus, while the Project is consistent with the national thrust for
economic growth, amid the growing clamor in the City for more rational
and efficient approach to urbanization, certain measures will have to be
adopted by the developers of the Project. These measures are intended to
mitigate and/or eradicate any possible negative environmental (both
physical and social) impacts that might crop up as a result of the
Project.

V. Impact Assessment

Key environmental impacts identified during the design and construction

phases of the Project concern the following:

 Keeping dust and noise pollution to the minimum

 Preserving the vegetative cover of the project site and proper spoil
disposal
 Sanitation
 Occupational health and welfare of workers
 Maintaining peace and order within the community as there might be a
big number of laborers coming from outside the local barangay

During the Project’s operation, the principal concern of stakeholders is

the effect the condominium complex might have on the supply of water to
the community from the Baguio Water District (BWD).

VI. Social Acceptability

The main concerns raised by the stakeholders revolved around maintaining

peace and order and sanitation, and the Project’s possible adverse effect
on the current water supply of the barangay from LTWD.
Accordingly, it was suggested that:

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  Drinking alcoholic beverages within and around the Project site
during construction shall be prohibited
 Proper waste management measures should be instituted during and
after construction
 Adequate and decent facilities should be provided in worker’s
quarters
 No preferential treatment shall be accorded to the proposed project
by LTWD in the allocation of water; rather, the Project proponent
should help, whenever feasible, LTWD in developing alternative water
sources.

VII. Environmental Management

A four-point Environmental Management Plan (EMP) has been developed. The

principal components of this program are:

a. Design of the Project

 Project will require minimal tree cutting

b. Construction of the Project

 Strictly monitor the work of the contractor to ensure that the
design specifications are met
 Impose tight controls on the contractor’s activities, especially
with regard to earthworks, movement of heavy equipment, spoil
disposal, storage and transport of construction materials, safety
and health of workers
 Maintain good and collaborative relations with the community

c. Operation Phase
 Employ high standards in the upkeep and maintenance of the
facilities to avoid wastage of resources, like water and
electricity

d. Environmental Monitoring Plan

 Environmental compliance and environmental effects monitoring
during construction and during project operation

VIII. Conclusion and Recommendation

The Project will result to minimal environmental effects to both the

natural and social environments. These can be mitigated with proper use
of sound construction methods, coupled with increased sensitivity to the
nuances of the local community. The proposed building should not develop
into a smaller community within that of the barangay.

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