MANILA – The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has asked San Miguel Corp. to stop operations of its coal-fired power plant in Bataan province following complaints from residents.

“We’re issuing a cease and desist order to the plant… They have to stop operations. I’m gonna insist that they take care of all the medical bills,” Environment Secretary Gina Lopez said.

There was no immediate comment from San Miguel Corp.

One resident, Violeta Yelo, said pollution from the plant has made it difficult for her to breathe.

“Energy nga, makikinabang buong Pilipinas pero yung epekto naman sa tao malaki,” said another resident, Alvin Pura.

(The entire country benefits from energy, but it comes at a huge cost to the people.)

Lopez, a known environment activist before she joined government last year, has cited at least 20 miners for violation of safety standards as she embarked on an industry-wide inspection.

“Heads will roll. I’m not going to take this sitting down we’re gonna clean up the organization,” Lopez said.