Report Manila Bay Reclamation: Balancing Development and Environmental Concerns

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Despite ongoing urban development efforts, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has declared Manila Bay to remain "alive." The bay is undergoing numerous reclamation projects, raising concerns about potential ecological damage.

 

In its cumulative impact assessment presented on April 30, the DENR acknowledged the bay's vibrance but also highlighted the risks of reclamation on marine ecosystems and fisherfolk livelihoods. Groups like PAMALAKAYA and Kalikasan People’s Network have called for a halt to all reclamation activities to protect these vulnerable elements.

 

DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga emphasized the importance of considering social, ecological, and cultural impacts in local government development plans, asserting that these must be acknowledged in Manila Bay's ongoing and future projects.

 

The assessment revealed significant biodiversity within Manila Bay, with 51 coral genera and 167 fish species potentially threatened by reclamation. Concerns articulated by Charina Lyna Repollo from the University of the Philippines Marine Science Institute include disrupted waterflows, pollutants trapping, and harmful impacts on fisheries and coastal communities.

 

Further, the loss of mangroves and increased sedimentation from these projects could cause more frequent flooding and expose communities to heightened risks during extreme weather conditions. Additionally, increased nutrients in the water may lead to algal blooms, posing threats to marine life and human health.

 

Yulo-Loyzaga urged local governments to incorporate impact assessments into their planning, addressing issues like water quality, mobility, waste management, flood control, and climate change risk. The DENR plans to review environmental compliance certificates and engage with stakeholders to ensure responsible project management.

 

Currently, more than 20 reclamation projects are proposed or in progress, but most were paused following President Marcos Jr.'s call for a comprehensive review. High-profile suspensions include Manila Waterfront City and the New Manila Bay Reclamation and Development Project, though Pasay Harbor City reclamation continues with proper authorization.

 

Moving forward, the next phase of assessments will focus on improving environmental monitoring and flood modeling, ensuring Manila Bay’s development aligns with sustainable practices and health and safety priorities for its communities and ecosystems.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from PhilStar 2025-05-01