Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA) v.

Court of Appeals

FACTS:
The Laguna Lake Development Authority, the petitioner, issued a cease and desists
order against the dumping of waste in the dumpsite of the Camarin area. This order was
brought upon the letter of complaint filed by the residents of the Camarin area. The resident
asked the LLDA to stop the dumping of waste materials in their area due to its harmful effects
on the health of the residents and the possibility of pollution of the surrounding water. The City
Government of Caloocan dismissed the order. They stress that in accordance to the general
welfare provision of the Local Government Code, they asserted their territorial jurisdiction on the
area. As an administrative agency, the LLDA, have the authority to issue a cease and desist.
order. RTC and CA ruled in favor of the City Government.
ISSUE:
Whether or not the LLDA has authority to issue a cease and desist order against the
dumping of waste on the Camarin area issued by the City of Caloocan.
HELD:
Yes. RA 4850 authorizes the Laguna Lake Development Authority to adjudicate pollution
cases in the Laguna Lake area and surrounding provinces including the City of Caloocan. The
law gives LLDA the power to make, alter or modify orders requiring the discontinuance of
pollution and to make whatever order may be necessary in the exercise of its jurisdiction. The
authority to issue a cease and desist order is implied. The cease and desist order is the
prompt response of the agency to the complaint that was issued by the residences of the
Camarin area. Article 2, Section 16 of the Constitution, was used by the LLDA as its guide to
halt the operations of the City of Caloocan. Article 2, Sec. 16 states that the State must protect
and advance the right of the people to a balanced and healthful ecology in accord with the
rhythm and harmony of nature. The order issued by the LLDA was in compliance with the said
law.