DENR: 'All set for Manila Bay rehabilitation'

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and other concerned agencies are all set for the Manila Bay rehabilitation, which will start on Sunday, an official said yesterday.

DENR Secretary Roy Cimatu said they would begin with the cleanup of esteros and the coastline of Manila Bay.

“While the cleanup is ongoing, we will also be finalizing plans for the relocation of informal settler families in the bay area. We will see who are to be relocated first. We will coordinate with the National Housing Authority on finding decent relocation sites for these informal settlers,” he said.

At the same time, the DENR chief pointed out there is a need for continuing  education to change the cultural habit of the people living near esteros of not properly disposing of their waste.

He said people need to realize that their attitude is contributing greatly to Manila Bay’s pollution.

“With education, we can clean up Manila Bay, we can sustain it, and we can preserve the revived Manila Bay,” he said.

At the same time, the DENR announced it will also crack down on all establishments discharging untreated wastewater either directly into the Manila Bay or into esteros and rivers leading to the bay.

Establishments found to be ignoring environmental laws could face closure or fine of up to P200,000 a day.

“We will issue notices of violation to non-compliant establishments or we will shut them down,” Cimatu warned. “Until they comply, they cannot operate.”

Cimatu also underscored the need for these establishments to “consciously practice” the 3Rs –reduce, reuse and recycle – for better solid waste management.

“Segregation at source is a simple practice that, when done habitually, will rid not just Metro Manila but the entire country of solid waste that pollutes land, water and air,” he said.

Cimatu said it is important for government offices, particularly those in the Manila Bay area, to make sure they are connected to sewer lines or have their own sewage treatment plants for proper wastewater disposal.

He appealed to local government units to manage their septage by ensuring that all commercial and residential establishments in their areas are treating their wastewater prior to discharging it.

Fecal coliform level in Manila Bay is at 330 million most probable number per 100 milliliters. The acceptable level for Class SB water, which is deemed safe, is 100 MPN/100 ml.

Cimatu added that the DENR’s goal is to reduce coliform levels to less than 270 MPN/100 ml by December 2019.