24 Oras May 3 2017 Latest News
Lopez turned emotional amid her supporters' cheers that also served as an indictment for the CA's decision.
Among the civic organizations and environmental groups who joined the indignation rally were: Alyansa Tigil Mina, Philippine Movement on Climate Justice, Sanlakas, Greenpeace, iDefend, Philippine Miseror Partnership, Worldwide Fund, and The Climate Reality Project-Philippines.
One of the groups said that the CA's decision to reject Lopez was a betrayal of country and the environment.
But Lopez said she remains optimistic in her crusade, and vowed to continue her work for the protection of the environment.
She also urged that President Rodrigo Duterte should take over the helm of the DENR.
Lopez earlier said that members of the CA seemed to have succumbed to "business interests."
“If government co-opts to big businesses, then what hope does the poor have? What message are we giving here? If you wanna be confirmed, never go against big businesses,” Lopez said.
Lopez had faced over 30 filed oppositions and three CA committee hearings in which she was questioned on her order to close 23 mining operations and suspend five others last February, her memorandum on imposing a P2-million trust fund per hectare of land disturbed by miners, and her competence to lead the agency.
She is the second Cabinet official appointed by Duterte to be rejected by the CA.
Lopez said her sources informed her that the CA vote was 16 against, and eight in favor. This was done through a secret balloting in an executive session.
The eight who voted for Lopez's confirmation were Senators Manny Pacquiao, Vicente Sotto III, JV Ejercito, Loren Legarda, Ralph Recto, Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan, Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino IV, and Franklin Drilon.
San Juan City Rep. Ronaldo Zamora who voted against the appointment of Lopez said that the latter is not prepared for the job.
WATCH: Gina Lopez sings 'I Believe I Can Fly' after CA rejects her appointment as DENR chief
