Isko to swimmers: Go to public pools, not Manila Bay

WHY SWIM in Manila Bay when you can swim in a public pool for free?

Alarmed over stubborn summer swimmers in the polluted bay, Manila Vice Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso reminded his constituents that there are four public pools across the city they can use to indulge in the sport.

All they have to do is to proceed to the Dapitan Sports complex at the corner of Dapitan and Piy Margal streets; the Army and Navy Club in Ermita; the pool at the corner of Jose Siria Cruz and Selya Streets in Pandacan; and Bagong Buhay Pool on Pedro Gil Street. Each pool can accommodate around 200 people .

Bathing in Manila Bay poses health risks, such as getting amoebiasis, Domagoso warned the public.

The vice mayor said they have been receiving reports from police that despite their appeals and the presence of signs in the area, swimmers have been flocking to the bay.

Domagoso is now pushing for the amendment and stricter implementation of an ordinance passed in 1956 which prohibits swimming in Manila Bay.
The ordinance imposes a P200 fine for violators.

Domagoso is seeking stiffer penalties for violating the ordinance. The matter was scheduled for discussion at the city council’s regular session Tuesday afternoon.