Calapan City opposes dredging, sand mining in rivers, coastal areas
MANILA, Philippines— The Sangguniang Panlungsod of Calapan has formally opposed dredging and sand mining operations in the city’s rivers and coastal barangays, citing environmental and social concerns.
In a resolution approved during its 141st regular session on Wednesday, May 7, the city council expressed “unequivocal objection and opposition” to the activities, warning that they endanger marine ecosystems, increase vulnerability to natural disasters, and threaten the livelihoods of local fisherfolk.
“These areas are part of the city’s efforts to conserve marine biodiversity and support sustainable fisheries,” the resolution read, referring to villages such as Maidlang and Silonay, which are designated Marine Protected Areas.
Dredging and sand mining harm coral reefs, mangrove forests and marine habitats, impairing the reproductive cycles of marine species crucial to subsistence fishing, the city council said in the resolution obtained by INQUIRER.net.
“The irreversible environmental and social harm caused by unregulated dredging and sand mining far outweighs any short-lived economic gain,” the council stated.
During the session presided over by Vice Mayor Rommel Ignacio, the resolution was moved by Councilor Ricka Marie Goco and seconded by Councilors Rius Anthony Agua, Ronalee Leachon, Federico Cabailo Jr., Roberto Concepcion, and Deo Lopez.
The council also cited increased risks of coastal erosion, storm surges and flooding, putting nearby communities at greater danger during extreme weather events.
“We are acting not just for today, but for the survival and well-being of our coastal communities,” the council said.
National investigation
The local action comes as President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has ordered a thorough investigation into dredging and reclamation activities in Philippine waters.
A report by the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency revealed that sand from Philippine coastal areas is allegedly being used in China’s reclamation activities in the West Philippine Sea.
Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said Wednesday the issue is under investigation to determine whether local government officials should be held accountable for massive dredging and sand mining in several parts of the country.
In Cagayan province, large-scale Chinese-led dredging operations along the Cagayan River have drawn sharp criticism from environmental groups and local fisherfolk, who say the activities have caused severe ecological damage, depleted fish stocks, and brought economic hardship to small-scale fishing communities, particularly in Aparri and nearby coastal towns.
On Mindoro Island, dredging has also been carried out off the shores of Gloria in Oriental Mindoro, as well as in the towns of Mamburao and Rizal in Occidental Mindoro, with local officials saying the projects are intended for flood control and desiltation.
