Caritas PH raises concern over adverse impact of Manila Bay reclamation project
Caritas Philippines on Tuesday, Aug. 15 expressed its unwavering support for the anti-reclamation initiatives of civil society organizations as it voiced its concern over the potential negative effects of the Manila Bay reclamation project on the environment, local community, and economy.

“We are deeply concerned about the negative impacts of reclamation projects on the environment, the economy, and the people,” Caritas Philippines president and Kidapawan Bishop Jose Colin Bagaforo said in a statement.
Bagaforo pointed out that the reclamation effort can trigger a cascade of negative effects on various levels.
“Reclamation projects displace fisherfolks and coastal urban communities, destroy coastal ecosystems, and contribute to food insecurity,” he said.
Caritas Philippines said it stands alongside other civil society organizations that are united in their argument that reclamation projects are not aligned with the best interests of the Filipino people.
“We are disappointed that this decision was not made by our government on its own initiative, but rather as a result of pressure from the United States,” Bagaforo said.
The organization urged President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. to take action against these activities.
"We call on President Bongbong Marcos to issue an executive order banning all reclamation projects, not only in Manila Bay but across the country,” Bagaforo said.
Caritas Philippines further emphasized that reclamation does not offer a comprehensive solution to the challenges faced by Metro Manila.
The organization advocates for a shift towards sustainable development that benefits all Filipinos, not just a few wealthy individuals. (Rhowen Del Rosario)