PCG inspects ships used in Manila Bay reclamation

The Philippine Coast Guard on Friday inspected reclamation sites in Pasay City and the ships used at these sites.

According to a "24 Oras" report by Ian Cruz, the PCG promised no one would violate the suspension order on reclamations in Manila Bay.

“Of course, we will board them and advice them na di sila pwedeng mag-operate dahil sa continuing suspension order coming from the DENR at PRA," Commander Jerome Lozada of Coast Guard Station Manila warned those who would violate the order.

Among the reasons for the opposition to some of the reclamation projects is the possible impact of land dumping on the natural features of Manila Bay and nearby areas, such as the Las Piñas wetland - one of the 114 protected areas in the country.

Meanwhile, there was no reclamation work in Manila Bay on Friday as the ships and heavy equipment were docked in Pasay City.

The hanging dredger and other equipment were also removed from areas near the United States Embassy in Manila.

According to the Philippine Reclamation Authority (PRA), they had sent a letter to the LGUs stating that all reclamation projects in Manila Bay were suspended.

Moreover, the PCG also went to the Chinese vessels in the area. They coordinated with these vessels and they responded politely.

It was estimated that more than 400 Chinese nationals were working on the various ships in Manila Bay who needed to be processed by immigration officials.

"They went onboard this vessel to check yung documents ng mga Chinese nationals, passports... working visas," Lozada added. — Sherylin Untalan/DVM, GMA Integrated News