DENR eyes cleanup of Palawan bay

MANILA, Philippines — After Boracay and Manila Bay, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is planning to clean and improve the water quality in Bacuit Bay in El Nido, Palawan.

Henry Adornado, executive director of the DENR- Mimaropa (Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon and Palawan), yesterday expressed confidence they could make the bay safe for swimming by May.

The Bacuit Bay has been placed under water quality management area (WQMA) by Environment Secretary Roy Cimatu through Administrative Order No. 2016-08 issued on May 24, 2016.

The WQMA is an integrated water quality management system designed to protect and save bodies of water through the collaborative efforts of stakeholders and government agencies.

“Water quality management is one of the priorities of Secretary Cimatu. The declaration of Bacuit Bay as a WQMA was part of the administration’s thrust to achieve clean water for all. We look forward to having a sustained and collective action toward saving Bacuit Bay and the rest of our natural resources here in El Nido,” DENR Assistant Secretary Reynulfo Juan said during a recent forum in El Nido.

Last year, the DENR created Task Force El Nido to handle the cleanup of coastal areas and ensure implementation of environmental rules and regulations in the area. 

This year, the DENR will establish a one-stop shop to assist concerned stakeholders in complying with government requirements and permits.