Catholic church leaders oppose Dumaguete reclamation project

Catholic church leaders in Dumaguete City said the "scientific and environmental implications" of a proposed reclamation project should be considered, according to a post on the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) website.

The reclamation project, dubbed "Smart City" island, would cost P23 billion and will include a coastal wastewater treatment facility, shoreline slope, wave protection, esplanade, a marina, a modern ferry port, and an open area for sports facilities, a hospital, and a city administration hub.

In an open letter signed by Dumaguete Bishop Julito Cortes, the leaders expressed their opposition to the 174-hectare reclamation project, which a joint project between a private company and the local government of Dumaguete City.

They took note of the opinion of scientists who were gathered in a forum to discuss the project together with the academe, environmental groups, leaders of church organizations, representatives of government agencies, and the priests of the diocese.

"As a summary, our invited scientists pointed out the overwhelming environmental threats and damages which the reclamation may cause particularly to the diverse marine life as well as to the local communities in Dumaguete City," the church leaders said.

"This goes without saying that the technical processes have been found wanting (public disclosure and consultation, feasibility study, hydrodynamic study, environmental impact assessment, environmental compliance certificate, etc.) in as far environmental and public interests are concerned," they added.

Aside from considering economic, social and political development, the leaders said, the proponents should also take into account the scientific and environmental implications of the massive project.

"Finally, we hope for an open public forum be organized concerning this issue so that more concerned people and institutions could take part in this discussion in order to promote transparency and dialogue," the church leaders said.

A copy of the open letter has been sent to Environment Secretary Roy Cimatu, Dumaguete City Mayor Felipe Antonio Remollo, City Councilors, Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo, among others.

Meanwhile, Bihsop Cortes, according to the CBCP report, has ordered that the tolling of the bells of St. Catherine of Alexandria Cathedral at 3pm as he also encouraged the people to pray the Chaplet of the Divine Mercy and Pope Francis’ “A Prayer for our Earth”.  -- BAP, GMA News