'No need to rush Solar City'

MANILA, Philippines - Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez sees no urgency to build the 148-hectare Solar City in the middle of Manila Bay.

"Hindi pa napapanahon. It's not something we terribly need," Jimenez said in a radio interview on Sunday night.

The project that will stand parallel to Roxas Boulevard, which will feature an artificial white sand beach, a first class park and a dock to allow visiting cruise ships, is something Jimenez thinks should be given less priority for now.

He said there are also other plans to beautify the surrounding area of Manila Bay, particularly along Roxas Boulevard.

"Meron na hong mga plano para pagandahin ang Roxas Boulevard, i-revive ang business all over the area," Jimenez said.

Environmental groups are protesting the proposed project, saying the reclamation process would worsen flooding in the area.

Manila Mayor Joseph "Erap" Estada, meanwhile, expressed support for the mammoth development expected to fetch the government P30 billion annually, excluding income taxes.

"It will not only enhance Manila but will generate jobs for the people of Manila," Estrada said in a previous report.

Manila GoldCoast Development Corporation vice chairman Edmundo Lim said that the project will enhance values of Ermita properties and even bring jobs to residents.

Lim said 100,000 construction workers and 500,000 other positions will be created under the reclamation plan.