Reclamation projects in Manila Bay have altered the landscape in this part of Pasay City. (File photo by GRIG C. MONTEGRANDE / Philippine Daily Inquirer)
MANILA, Philippines — The fishers’ group Pambansang Lakas ng Kilusang Mamamalakaya ng Pilipinas (Pamalakaya) on Sunday said that the resumption of suspended reclamation projects in Manila Bay would preempt the ongoing cumulative impact assessment of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
“Contrary to the claim of the PRA (Philippine Reclamation Authority) that reclamation will boost production, it is actually a bane to the livelihood of fisherfolk and the fisheries production altogether,” Fernando Hicap, Pamalakaya chair, said in a statement.
He said data from the government indicates the low production output of several fishery species in areas with reclamation and dredging projects.
READ: Fishers’ group hits planned resumption of reclamation projects
Last week, the PRA announced the possible resumption of at least two reclamation projects in Manila Bay: the 90-hectare reclamation in Bacoor City and the reclamation for expanding a fish port complex in Navotas City.