Senator Alan Peter Cayetano called for a comprehensive review of ongoing reclamation projects, particularly around Manila Bay, to consider both ecological and engineering factors.
Cayetano emphasized that while the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is responsible for environmental studies, it must also consider engineering factors.
He raised this issue with Public Works and Highways Secretary Manuel Bonoan, who responded that the DPWH primarily assesses technical aspects of reclamation projects to ensure they do not interfere with existing flood control systems.
Once the assessment shows no impediments, Bonoan said the DPWH issues “no objection,” but this assessment is limited to the location of the reclamation.
The senator emphasized that the government must ensure that its actions are sustainable since it spends billions not only on reclamation but also on related infrastructure projects like the Bulacan airport.
Cayetano proposed an interagency collaboration between the DPWH and DENR to improve oversight and mitigate flooding risks. He stressed the importance of sustainable actions, as the government spends billions on reclamation and related infrastructure projects.
He also highlighted the importance of master planning for bodies of water, particularly Laguna Lake, to avoid unintended consequences like increased crowding in Metro Manila.
Cayetano requested DENR Secretary Toni Yulo-Loyzaga to address reclamation concerns.
“We always put first the projects that are economically and financially viable, then to follow the environmental aspect,” he explained.
