Cordova fisherfolk block reclamation

CEBU, Philippines - The fisherfolk are strongly opposed to the 1,500-hectare reclamation project in Cordova town.

Elizar Pugoy, chairman of the fisherfolk organization Pamati-a Co, said the project will deprive over 8,000 fishermen of their livelihood.

Pugoy said the reclamation project has been a dream of the mayor of Cordova since 1991.

“Ilang pasalig nga molambo ang panginabuhian sa mga mangingisda pero di na tinuod,” said Pugoy.

   Alejandro Baguio, vice chairman of Pamati-a Co, said they are opposed to the reclamation project because it will displace the fishermen who are relying on their livelihood in the sea.

“Walay konkreto’ng plano kung asa ibutang ang mga mangingisda labi na ni’ng mga walay grado ug mga tiguwang na,” said Baguio.

  Noe Cantiveros, volunteer at Farmers Development Center, said the municipal government does not have any concrete plans for the affected sector.

“Ang pagtangtang sa dagat, pagtangtang usab sa panginabuhian sa mga mananagat,” said Cantiveros.

A joint venture agreement between SM Prime Holdings Inc. and Cordova Reclamation and Horizontal Development Project was already signed last year.

SMPHI will develop 1,500 hectares out of the 3,500 foreshore land of the town. The reclaimed area will be used as port for cruise ships and a mall.  Cordova is currently home to 12,000 households and fishing is the main livelihood of its constituents.

The P138 billion project is expected to commence as soon as possible after the approval of the president and is expected to be completed within eight years.—(FREEMAN)