Advocacy group urges gov’t to enforce law in Manila Bay reclamation projects

An environmental group on Tuesday urged the government to enforce the law in connection with applications for reclamation projects in Manila Bay.

In a statement released during a summit of civil society and fisherfolk groups, Oceana Philippines said they are alarmed by the "apparent disregard" of laws in allowing reclamation projects "to pave our mangroves, sea grass beds, and other marine habitats."

"Dumping and filling of critical marine support systems in Manila Bay are not only violating our laws; these deprive our artisanal fisherfolk of their living and sustenance as well," Oceana said.

The group said it questioned the Philippine Reclamation Authority and other government offices for processing the applications for the projects "despite possible violations of the Local Government Code, the Fisheries Code, and the Environmental Impact Statement System."

Gloria Estenzo Ramos, the vice president of Oceana Philippines, said the group dares the project proponents to prove they complied with requirements under the law.

Oceana also said a new species of sardines has been discovered in Manila Bay and other parts of the country.

The group warned that reclamation projects displace artisanal fisherfolk and deprive them of livelihood.

"Destruction of our marine habitats is irreversible," Oceana said.

Opposition congressmen had claimed that the campaign to rehabilitate Manila Bay could be a prelude to a massive reclamation, but presidential spokesperson Salvador Panelo said the government will benefit from such projects. — Nicole-Anne C. Lagrimas/RSJ, GMA News