Late last week the Philippines’ Court of Appeals ruled the ban on aerial spraying of banana plantations around the Davao City was unconstitutional and overturned it.
The move has pleased banana groups, who have been dealing with the fluctuating legality of the practice for some years, but environmental groups and Davao City officials have vowed the fight is not over, reported Business World Online.
The Pilipino Banana Growers and Exporters Association had elevated the legal battle to the Court of Appeals, and was pleased with the result.
“We are happy now that we are vindicated,” said spokesman Anthony Sasin.
Members of Mamamayan Ayaw sa Aerial Spraying (MAAS, Citizens Against Aerial Spraying) camped outside the court building during the hearing to protest aerial spraying.
The practice has been accused to polluting water supplies and causing health problems in Davao City.
Davao’s government said it would take the matter higher to the Supreme Court following the overturning of the ban.
“It’s unfortunate, but the legal battle has not yet ended,” said city administrator Wendel Avisado.
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