EO for suspension of Manila Bay reclamation projects sought

ATM Press Release | August 09, 2023

Alyansa Tigil Mina welcomed the announcement of President Bongbong Marcos that Manila Bay reclamation projects have been suspended except for one project. However, it asked for a corresponding Order from the Office of the President or the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Philippine Reclamation Authority (PRA) in order to ensure that the projects are indeed suspended.

Jaybee Garganera, ATM National Coordinator, said: “The President’s recent pronouncement was the first time we’ve heard that the reclamation projects have been suspended because there has already been a review of the projects. If this is indeed true, there should be an Executive Order to ensure that the companies comply with the policy. The President should back up his pronouncement with an Order to give teeth to his statement. At the minimum, DENR Sec. Yulo-Loyzaga or the PRA should issue an Admin Order for the immediate suspension of these projects. We also demand the disclosure of that sole reclamation project that was allowed to proceed.”

Garganera added, “We have not even received news that the cumulative impact assessment has already been completed.” he added. “If this is still ongoing, we reiterate our demand that the participation of civil society organizations (CSO) and affected communities be ensured so there is a more holistic and representative assessment of the projects.”