Decision 10 G.R. No. 215988 environmental case) against SM Supermalls, SM Prime Holdings, Inc., and Regional Executive Director Baguilat. It was docketed as Civil Case No. 7629-R. The two (2) environmental cases and the contempt petition werr consolidated. 29 Cordillera Global Network and Adajar, et al. both alleged that the cutting or earth-balling of the 182 trees on Luneta Hill would severely damage the enviromnent and health of Baguio City residents. They also assailed the regularity of the permits issued, further claiming that the Expansion Project violated zoning and environmental laws. 30 Defendants asserted that the pertinent permits were issued only after strict compliance with the relevant rules and regulations. The public officials added that a team had been created to monitor the cutting and earthballing of the trees. They also emphasized that they immediately complied with the Temporary Environmental Protection Order upon receipt from the trial court and directed private defendants to pursue remedial measures over the affected trees. 31 In its December 3, 2012 Decision, 32 the Regional Trial Court dismissed the consolidated cases. The Regional Trial Court held that Cordillera Global Network and Adajar, et al. possessed the necessary personality to file the environment: 1 cases under the principle of transcendental imp01iance. 33 However, the1.· cases did not fall under any of the exceptions to the rule on exhaustion of administrative remedies. Thus, the cases were dismissible on procedural grounds. 34 Moreover, the trial court noted that while their witness, Dr. Michael A. Bengwayan, quantified the effects of removing 182 trees on Luneta Hill, his testimony appeared to be "mere conclusions of fact devoid of any scientific basis" 35 and failed to prove that removing the trees would have a detrimental effect causing irreparable damage to the environment and Baguio City residents. 36 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 Id. Id. Id. Id. Id. Id. Id. Id. at 201. at 201-202. at 202. at 199-218. at 204. at 204-206. at 207. /} )i