MERRY-GO-ROUND

By FLORO L. MERCENE

From scientific basis devoid of politics and emotions, land reclamation can in fact complement accompanying rehabilitation.

Manila Bay is heavily polluted from the refuse  coming from major tributaries like Pasig, Paranaque, and Tullahan Rivers, and about 20 other rivers.

Manila Bay is also the outlet for esteros, refuse from Informal settlers, and untreated sewage from business establishments.

If reclamation is done properly, in accordance with sound engineering practices, Metro Manila would benefit from it.  How?

First, we must remove years of deposited silt, garbage, and scraps from the sea bed.

This could be done by providing centralized and controlled waste water management thru engineered drainage system and by institutionalizing organized responsibilities for the control of sewage pollution.

The LGUs, in joint-venture arrangement with the private sector, could carry out the Manila Bay rehabilitation more effectively. Funds for environmental protection could be adequately provided.

Moreover since the “mandamus” on Manila Bay places responsibilities on the LGUs, by being integral parts of the institutional plan in reclamation projects and in partnership with private sectors, the mandamus can be more effectively carried out.

The ‘no-reclamation’ scenario

Without reclamation the socio-economic development plans of urban communities will necessarily be instituted on shore. Assuming contiguous land are available for a realistic development plan, serious obstacles are seen, like maintaining the quality of Manila Bay.

There is extreme difficulty bordering on incapability of the various locators of this on-shore based development plans in complying with Department Admin. Order 2016-18.

Right-of-Way issues for the drainage system are also potential challenges.

The LGUs will not be integral part of the organization that will implement the waste water management system, thus emasculating their otherwise effective role. Their role in the exercise of the “mandamus” will also be limited.

Without a central institution monitoring individual sources of waste water discharges, that would create formidable challenges even to the DENR.

The voluminous evidence of successful reclamation projects in the world like New York, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Dubai, and Singapore, to name a few, should be a learning experience and also source of inspiration for Manila Bay  reclamation.