In a compelling interview on Bagong Pilipinas at PTV4, Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga has issued a stark warning about the dire need for a robust flood management strategy in the ongoing Manila Bay reclamation projects. Loyzaga emphasized that without such a plan, the risk of severe flooding in Metro Manila and surrounding areas could escalate dramatically.
Loyzaga pointed out a critical flaw in the majority of the reclamation proposals submitted for development: the lack of integration with local government units’ (LGUs) flood management plans. She stressed the importance of this integration, warning that without it, water flow from rivers and inland areas could become obstructed, leading to catastrophic flooding.
Recent studies by the University of the Philippines Marine Science Institute (UP MSI) and the Marine Environment Research Foundation (MERF) have confirmed Loyzaga’s concerns. These studies show that any alterations to Manila Bay’s physical environment will directly impact water circulation and drainage, underscoring the urgency of effective flood management.
Beyond flood risks, Loyzaga highlighted other significant issues with the reclamation proposals, including inadequate plans for traffic management, water and electricity supply, and solid waste disposal. These deficiencies could exacerbate pollution and other environmental problems.
The Secretary also addressed the potential socioeconomic impacts of the reclamation, particularly on the livelihoods of communities around Manila Bay, such as those in the fisheries sector. She emphasized the need for developers and their LGU partners to have clear plans to support and protect these communities.
Loyzaga’s observations will be included in the Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ (DENR) report to the Supreme Court, which is tasked with overseeing the cleanup, rehabilitation, and preservation of Manila Bay under the 2008 SC Mandamus. This mandate requires maintaining the bay’s waters at a level suitable for swimming and other recreational activities.
Without a comprehensive flood management plan, Loyzaga warned, compliance with the Supreme Court’s directives could become even more challenging due to increased pollution and stagnant water. She called for a climate-resilient, science-based approach to reclamation projects, urging all stakeholders to prioritize sustainability and disaster preparedness.