Residents in communities surrounding Mt. Banahaw—including Lucban, Quezon; Rizal; Nagcarlan; Tiaong; Candelaria; Sariaya; and Tayabas City—are considering organizing a large rally to oppose the reportedly planned construction of windmills in the area.

The proposed project, set for Tayabas City, has raised concerns that it could damage the virgin forests of Mt. Banahaw. The windmills are planned to be built in Brgy. Ilasan Ilaya, and other nearby areas under Tayabas City’s jurisdiction.

RH Benjie Alde Antioquia reports that local authorities, however, appear to support the project, showing little concern for the potential environmental impact, including the destruction of trees that act as natural safeguards during disasters.

Opposition has come from Chinese businessmen and institutions such as Southern Luzon State University in Lucban, Quezon. They argue that the windmills would endanger seedlings and other trees planted in ongoing reforestation efforts.

Annual tree-planting initiatives, supported by the Southern Luzon Command of the Philippine Army, the PNP, and the Philippine Air Force, aim to protect and sustain Mt. Banahaw’s ecosystem.

Residents and environmental advocates have expressed determination to prevent the project from proceeding, emphasizing the importance of preserving the mountain’s natural heritage for future generations.