DENR-7 warns: Build bridges, but don’t destroy mangroves

CEBU, Philippines - The Department of Environment and Natural Resources warned against the destruction of mangroves in Cordova where one end of the proposed third Cebu-Mactan Bridge, as well as the Bohol-Cebu bridge, would be built.

 The same warning also applies to the proposed 1,500-hectare reclamation development project of SM Prime Holdings, Inc. in joint venture with the Municipality of Cordova, warned DENR.

 During the 888 News Forum at Marco Polo Plaza, DENR-7 Director Emma Melana said the matter has already been raised in a meeting with Cordova town officials.

 Melana said they have yet to see the physical plan of the proposed projects as these will first be forwarded to the Philippine Reclamation Authority then to DENR for clearances.

 Melana said they have to comply with the provisions of Presidential Decree No. 705, otherwise known as the Revised Forestry Reform Code of the Philippines as amended by Republic Act 7161.

 "Mangroves ay di pwedeng masira," she said.

 She said there has been increasing mangrove plantation, not only in Central Visayas but nationwide due to massive reforestation projects of various groups, including fisherfolks.

 "They appreciate planting of mangroves to increase fish production," Melana said.

 The Metro Pacific Investments Corp., through its subsidiary Metro Pacific Tollways Development Corp., is set to build the 8.25 kilometer toll bridge linking Cebu City to Cordova. The project is expected to be finished by 2020.

 The National Economic and Development Authority reported that the Cebu's third bridge project is getting approvals from Toll Regulatory Board, PRA, Department of Public Works and Highways, Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines and Mactan-Cebu International Airport.

 Recently, the NEDA Board endorsed to China for funding the feasibility study on the proposed 24-kilometer series of bridges and causeways that will link Getafe town in Bohol to Cordova town in Cebu. (FREEMAN)