Fisherfolk and environmentalists are expressing their concerns over the slow response of the Marcos administration regarding reclamation projects in Manila Bay. Despite President Bongbong Marcos Jr.’s announcement to suspend all reclamation projects, critics argue that stronger measures need to be taken.
Members of the People’s Network for the Integrity of Coastal Habitats and Ecosystems (People’s NICHE) have been requesting a dialogue with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) since August 2022. However, it took the DENR eight months to grant this request. During the dialogue, the DENR stated that a cumulative impact assessment would be conducted on all reclamation projects but stopped short of issuing a moratorium on ongoing projects.
While the suspension of 22 reclamation projects is seen as a victory for the environment, it is not enough. The suspension only applies to projects listed by the Philippine Reclamation Authority (PRA), leaving out other equally or more destructive coastal development projects. One such project is San Miguel Corporation’s New Manila International Airport, also known as Bulacan Aerotropolis. With an area three times larger than the largest suspended reclamation project, the impacts of this airport project alone could outweigh those of the smaller projects.
The Bulacan Aerotropolis has already faced controversy, with fishing communities reporting mangrove cutting and human rights violations. Displaced residents have claimed that the compensation provided by San Miguel Corporation was insufficient. Additionally, fisherfolk in Cavite have reported dwindling catch since dredging began in their coastal waters.
Another project of San Miguel Corporation, the Manila Bay Integrated Flood Control, Coastal Defense, and Expressway, is being proposed and has raised concerns among environmentalists regarding the impact on mangrove ecosystems.
Given these concerns, environmentalists and fisherfolk are calling on the DENR to conduct a thorough investigation into the cumulative impacts of all coastal development projects, including dredging activities. These projects not only affect specific areas but have far-reaching implications for marine biodiversity, fisheries production, and food security.
The Marcos administration, particularly the DENR, is urged to take these matters seriously. Despite a continuing mandamus from the Supreme Court to rehabilitate Manila Bay, the current situation contradicts this directive, with rampant mangrove deforestation, dredging, and reclamation projects. While the suspension order and planned impact assessment are positive steps, critics argue that the Bulacan Aerotropolis and reclamation-related dredging activities must be included in the suspension and investigation.
When pursuing development projects, the impact on different sectors and the environment should be carefully considered. The focus should be on sustainable development rather than benefiting only the rich while leaving marginalized sectors behind. The government’s efforts to rehabilitate Manila Bay will be in vain if they exclude the largest coastal development projects and allow their destructive activities to continue.
In conclusion, fisherfolk and environmentalists are calling for stronger measures and a more comprehensive investigation into the cumulative impacts of all coastal development projects in Manila Bay. The Marcos administration, particularly the DENR, needs to prioritize sustainable development and protect the marine ecosystem for the benefit of all.
