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DENR Assures Lawful Implementation Of Reclamation Projects In Manila Bay Following Presidential Suspension
Photo credit: DENR
In response to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s recent directive to halt all reclamation projects in Manila Bay, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has pledged its commitment to ensuring that such projects adhere to legal standards.
The suspension order, issued due to concerns over environmental and social consequences, has prompted the DENR to intensify its scrutiny of ongoing and proposed developments within the vital waterway.
Speaking at a press briefing held at Malacañang, Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga emphasized the administration's recognition of the intricate relationship between sustainable development, environmental preservation, biodiversity, climate change, and land-use dynamics, echoing President Marcos's State of the Nation Address (SONA) remarks.
Secretary Yulo-Loyzaga said "The suspension of reclamation projects in Manila Bay is a response to addressing the environmental and social impacts of these activities. The DENR is diligently assessing the compliance and conditions set forth in the Environmental Compliance Certificates (ECCs) and area clearances issued for these projects."
The central point of contention, she highlighted, involves the Community Impact Assessment, which will be orchestrated by a scientific team assembled by the DENR. This interdisciplinary initiative, set to begin this month, aims to comprehensively evaluate the potential effects of the projects.
"We are not dealing with a simple matter here," Secretary Yulo-Loyzaga emphasized. "Community Impact Assessment involves a multi-faceted approach, incorporating input from various experts, communities, and disciplines."
The assessment process for the 22 projects sanctioned during the previous administration will involve the collaboration of experts spanning diverse fields, including social scientists, experts in various domains, and academic professionals.
As for the timeline, Secretary Yulo-Loyzaga clarified that the department's objectives will crystallize once the scientific team convenes and outlines the work program. The team, consisting of physical scientists, oceanographers, geologists, climate scientists, and social scientists, will engage in a meticulous review of ongoing projects, followed by those that have not yet commenced.
Reiterating the significance of the President's suspension order, Secretary Yulo-Loyzaga underlined the DENR's constitutional duty, as affirmed by a court mandate, to rehabilitate Manila Bay to a state where recreational activities such as swimming and fishing can be enjoyed.
"The rehabilitation of Manila Bay is a solemn obligation we take seriously, backed by a mandate from the Supreme Court. This involves not only the DENR but also 13 other agencies. To fulfill our responsibilities, it's imperative to scrutinize these projects," she stressed.
President Marcos, while addressing local officials in Bulacan, highlighted the necessity of suspending reclamation projects in Manila Bay due to concerns about their proper execution. Multiple issues have surfaced in project implementation, leading to this temporary cessation.
The DENR's proactive commitment to assess and rectify the potential environmental and social impacts of reclamation projects aligns with the government's pledge to balance development with ecological stewardship. The outcome of this assessment will shape the future of Manila Bay's coastal landscape, reflecting the nation's dedication to sustainable progress.
The suspension order, issued due to concerns over environmental and social consequences, has prompted the DENR to intensify its scrutiny of ongoing and proposed developments within the vital waterway.
Speaking at a press briefing held at Malacañang, Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga emphasized the administration's recognition of the intricate relationship between sustainable development, environmental preservation, biodiversity, climate change, and land-use dynamics, echoing President Marcos's State of the Nation Address (SONA) remarks.
Secretary Yulo-Loyzaga said "The suspension of reclamation projects in Manila Bay is a response to addressing the environmental and social impacts of these activities. The DENR is diligently assessing the compliance and conditions set forth in the Environmental Compliance Certificates (ECCs) and area clearances issued for these projects."
The central point of contention, she highlighted, involves the Community Impact Assessment, which will be orchestrated by a scientific team assembled by the DENR. This interdisciplinary initiative, set to begin this month, aims to comprehensively evaluate the potential effects of the projects.
"We are not dealing with a simple matter here," Secretary Yulo-Loyzaga emphasized. "Community Impact Assessment involves a multi-faceted approach, incorporating input from various experts, communities, and disciplines."
The assessment process for the 22 projects sanctioned during the previous administration will involve the collaboration of experts spanning diverse fields, including social scientists, experts in various domains, and academic professionals.
As for the timeline, Secretary Yulo-Loyzaga clarified that the department's objectives will crystallize once the scientific team convenes and outlines the work program. The team, consisting of physical scientists, oceanographers, geologists, climate scientists, and social scientists, will engage in a meticulous review of ongoing projects, followed by those that have not yet commenced.
Reiterating the significance of the President's suspension order, Secretary Yulo-Loyzaga underlined the DENR's constitutional duty, as affirmed by a court mandate, to rehabilitate Manila Bay to a state where recreational activities such as swimming and fishing can be enjoyed.
"The rehabilitation of Manila Bay is a solemn obligation we take seriously, backed by a mandate from the Supreme Court. This involves not only the DENR but also 13 other agencies. To fulfill our responsibilities, it's imperative to scrutinize these projects," she stressed.
President Marcos, while addressing local officials in Bulacan, highlighted the necessity of suspending reclamation projects in Manila Bay due to concerns about their proper execution. Multiple issues have surfaced in project implementation, leading to this temporary cessation.
The DENR's proactive commitment to assess and rectify the potential environmental and social impacts of reclamation projects aligns with the government's pledge to balance development with ecological stewardship. The outcome of this assessment will shape the future of Manila Bay's coastal landscape, reflecting the nation's dedication to sustainable progress.
Aug 10, 2023
