Ecology groups seek Aquino’s aid in halting Cordova reclamation

LOCAL ecology groups  are seeking President Benigno Aquino III’s support in their call for a moratorium on all reclamation projects in the country.

Lawyer Gloria Estenzo Ramos of the Philippine Earth Justice Center said  they will also request the Climate Change Commission to look into the hazards of the reclamation project in Cordova.

“The  project is not participatory and it goes against the wishes of the people,” Ramos said.

Ramos said CCC can recommend to stop the project if proven that it is indeed hazardous.

She said reclaiming the coastal area would destroy the marine biodiversity, including the sea grass that provides home for the sea species in the area.

Ramos also criticized  the “recklessness” of the Environment Management Bureau (EMB) in issuing permits to environmentally hazardous projects.

“They approved the project without a proper study and public consultation. It’s gross abuse of discretion,” she said.

But Mayor Adelino Sitoy said they are willing to comply with environmental standards in pushing through with their 10-hectare reclamation project.

They are currently assisted by marine biology experts who will give their recommendations on how to proceed with the project.

“We will be guided by their findings and recommendations. We are willing to follow all environmental compliance,” Sitoy told Cebu Daily News.

Cordova is assisted by Dr. Filipina Sotto, chairman of the Biology Department of the University of San Carlos, in assessing the physical properties and marine status of the reclaimed area.

Sitoy expressed confidence that the study will be favorable for them.

When asked if he will heed a recommendation to stop the reclamation project if it would harm the town’s biodiversity, Sitoy said he will consider it.

“We will tackle that issue later when the study is out,” Sitoy said in Cebuano.

The results of the study are expected to be released next week./reporter Candeze R. Mongaya