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UP-MSI accepts DENR exec Antiporda’s apology after ‘bayaran’ remark

The University of the Philippines Marine Science Institute (UP-MSI) on Friday said it has accepted the apology of Environment Undersecretary Benny Antiporda following his outburst when he labeled them “bayaran.”

Interviewed on Super Radyo dzBB, UP-MSI director Laura David said they are ready to work with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources anew.

“Wala pong problema. Magta-trabaho kami ulit,” David said.

For David, she said what happened was just a misunderstanding.

She also pointed out that its research activities are project-based and are under contract.

“Nagbabayad po sila pero hindi po (kami) bayaran,” she jested. “Hindi lang po siya (Antiporda) familiar sa aming contract. Akala po niya consultancy na napupunta sa bulsa ng tao. Hindi siya familiar na bayad ito sa research mismo.”

“Kasi magastos din naman talaga pumunta sa laot at magdatos at pumunta sa laboratoryo at i-analyze ito,” she added.

In a public press briefing on Wednesday, Antiporda slammed UP for allegedly using public funds for its studies since 2016.

He made the statement when asked about the offer of UP Diliman Institute of Biology to help in the rehabilitation of Manila Bay.

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“Kalahating bilyon ang binayaran sa kanila simula 2016 hanggang taong ito. Kalahating bilyon na puro lang konsultasyon, walang infrastructure. Kalahating bilyon ang binayaran natin sa UP na 'yan,” he said.

Antiporda has since apologized, saying he was carried away by his emotions and was “hurt” by the criticisms on the DENR’s Manila Bay white sand project.

Manila Bay ‘nourishment’ project

Moreover, David said the DENR did not consult UP-MSI regarding the Manila Bay white sand project.

She also pointed out that the issue with Manila Bay is its water quality.

“‘Yong mandamus, nakautos na unahin ang paglilinis ng tubig. Sa ganoon po, ang dolomite, ‘di naman po siya panlinis,” David said.

“Pero kung marami po sanang pera ang Pilipinas, kasama naman po talaga ang beach nourishment sa malawakang pagpapaganda ng Manila Bay kaya lang po hindi ito ang prayoridad,” she added.

According to David, among the activities that can be done to improve Manila Bay’s water quality are wastewater management, wastewater treatment plan, and the addition of mangroves and seagrass.

Earlier, environmentalists and fisherfolk groups criticized the white sand project, calling it an artificial rehabilitation and a waste of money.—Ma. Angelica Garcia/LDF, GMA News