Fishers group Pambansang Lakas ng Kilusang Mamamalakaya ng Pilipinas (Pamalakaya) has lauded the moratorium on new applications for reclamation projects, which is a result of continued objection from the fisherfolk and environmental communities.
Recently, the Philippine Reclamation Authority (PRA) temporarily halted accepting applications for new reclamation projects as ordered by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr.
“We are elated with this recent development but our fight against reclamation is far from over. Currently, there are at least 21 reclamation projects across Manila Bay that have to be revoked,” the fishers group said in a statement.
However, Pamalakaya pointed out that the 21 reclamation projects in Manila Bay that have previously received environmental compliance certificates (ECCs) from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) are not included in the moratorium.
“While we welcome the moratorium on new applications for reclamation, we demand that the ongoing and pending reclamation projects be unequivocally revoked,” said Pamalakaya Chairperson Fernando Hicap.
“These approved projects are too many and destructive for our marine ecosystems and coastal communities. What good is a moratorium on new applications if existing ones continue to ravage our marine environment and the livelihood of fisherfolk?” he went on.
The environment department should unconditionally cancel the environmental permits granted to 21 reclamation projects in Manila Bay, the group said.
“We vow to continue our collective efforts until every single reclamation across the archipelago is put to stop and the companies behind these destructive projects be held accountable,” the Pamalakaya chairperson said.
“Among the reclamation projects with ECCs are the 420-hectare reclamation project in Bacoor City, Cavite; the 2, 500-hectare Bulacan Aerotropolis; the 360-hectare reclamation project in Pasay City; the 650-hectare reclamation project in Navotas City; and the 419-hectare Horizon Manila project.”
On May 8, Pamalakaya took part in the DENR's Experts Forum on Reclamation in Malate, Manila, at the Century Park Hotel. Hicap expressed the group's stance against reclamation during the meeting and emphasized its detrimental effects on the environment, fishers' livelihoods, and those living in coastal towns.