The rehabilitation of Manila Bay is a key component in ensuring that we are prepared for the dangers of Climate Change and not only that it is key towards ensuring sustainable living for the people of Manila and nearby areas.
Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Roy Cimatu reported on key government improved natural systems and enhance climate-resilient communities connected with keeping Manila Bay healthier and cleaner. The report came one year since the Battle for Manila Bay was waged.
Here are some of the key projects that was implemented:
- At the Manila Baywalk, a 1.7 km wastewater interceptor was constructed to catch dirty waters from the three notorious outfalls of Manila at a solar-powered sewerage treatment plant beside the Manila Yacht Club. This STP is capable of treating 500,000 liters of untreated wastewater per day. As a result, chloroform levels at the bay walk area have drastically decreased recently;
- A 2.5-kilometer long trashboom was already installed designed to trap for collection of floating debris coming from the offshore before these would inundate the seawall of the Manila Baywalk;
- Dredging the waters fronting the whole Manila Baywalk is in full blast. While nourishment of the beach area beside the US Embassy is ongoing;
- Dredging of the Tullahan-Tinejeros River System, through the support of San Miguel Corporation’s P1-biliion pledge of dredging and cleanup of the river system has started;
- With the help of barangays, communities, private sectors, and estero rangers, the massive cleanup of esteros continues;
- Direct dumping of trash along the riverways draining to Manila Bay is a critical issue that needs to be resolved in a comprehensive manner;
- Provision for re-settlement of the informal settler families is a key option in the rehabilitation of Manila Bay; and
- With the relentless cleanup drive and the mobilization of the barangay and communities, the environment around Baseco has improved, with the cleanup preparing the communities for the need for continuing hygiene to fight COVID-19.
Read the full information and report via the Philippine Information Agency.
