DENR confirms compliance of 2 Pasay reclamation projects

Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga during a press briefing in Malacañang in this file photo taken on August 2, 2023. INQUIRER.net file photo / Ryan Leagogo

MANILA, Philippines — Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Loyzaga on Wednesday said that two reclamation projects in Pasay City were able to comply with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) requirements.

While Loyzaga reiterated that it was not within the DENR’s power to suspend reclamation projects, the agency must conduct a compliance review. The DENR issues an environmental compliance certificate (ECC), which is needed before a company can undertake a reclamation project.

“There were several technical conferences called because there were some findings and observations. After they complied with what was required, documentation-wise and then review-wise as well overall. The DENR actually submitted a report, and they had, in fact, substantially complied,” said Loyzaga in a Palace briefing.

READ: Pamalakaya denounces resumption of 2 reclamation projects in Pasay City

Loyzaga also said that the DENR is conducting a cumulative assessment impact on the areas as well.

“This is the scientific analysis needed in order for us to determine the cumulative impact of all these projects in terms of the fulfillment of the Mandamus order by the DENR as the lead implementing agency,” said Loyzaga.

READ: Resumption of 2 reclamation projects cheered, jeered

Marcos had suspended all Manila Bay reclamation projects in August.

However, reports of the resumption of two selected reclamation projects surfaced on Wednesday.

Environmental and fisherfolk groups have denounced the resumption of the reclamation projects.