Aquino: Gov’t to press charges vs people, firms over blocked waterways

President Benigno Aquino III

MANILA, Philippines—President Benigno Aquino III revealed that the government is preparing to press charges against individuals and establishments responsible for the construction of buildings that blocked waterways.

“A legal team led by [Justice] Secretary Leila De Lima is preparing to file cases against those who have closed or obstructed our waterways,” Aquino said during his 4^th State of the Nation Address Monday.

Aquino pointed that aside from the garbage of those living along the waterways, certain structures built are also blocking the water channels.

“Channels through which water passes should be for that purpose alone,” he said.

Aside from filing cases, Aquino said coordination with local government units on the recolation of informal settlers living along the waterways has been done.

He said the government’s priority for this year is to relocate some 19,400 families living along Metro Manila’ major bodies of water.