Press Release - Villar, Cynthia: Opening remarks during the public hearing on Proposed Resolutions on Reclamation

This is our second public hearing on two (2) proposed Senate resolutions filed about the land reclamation projects in the country: 1) Proposed Senate Resolution No. 300 filed by Sen. Risa Hontiveros; and 2) Proposed Resolution No. 759 filed by Minority Leader Koko Pimentel.

Here is a brief recap of what transpired during our first public inquiry, in aid of legislation, held on September 27 on the said 2 resolutions:

* Along with the Chair, the authors of the mentioned resolutions, Senators Pimentel and Risa Hontiveros attended the hearing. Sen. Jinggoy Estrada was also present.

* Resource persons from relevant government agencies, academic institutions, civil society organizations, and the private sector were likewise present.

* Due to the absence of former EMB Director William Cuñado, who issued various controversial ECCs for reclamation projects, the committee has issued a subpoena to ensure his attendance at today's hearing.

* EMB Director Gilbert Gonzales provided presentation on the Reclamation Application process, explaining the involvement of the Philippine Reclamation Authority (PRA) and the DENR in the process.

* Atty. Literal of PRA addressed questions about the standard Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that PRA has with reclamation proponents and the joint venture agreements between LGUs and private entities. He clarified that the MOU specifies mandatory requirements and timelines for reclamation projects, starting with a PPP ordinance from the local government and including a bidding process, award, and joint venture agreement.

* DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga assured the committee that the DENR is finalizing its memorandum of agreement with scientists to conduct a Cumulative Impact Assessment for the Manila Bay reclamation.

* Drawing from personal experiences, the Chair spoke about her two-decade-long opposition to reclamation projects, particularly the Alltech reclamation project in Las Piñas City and highlighted the importance of the Las Piñas-Parañaque Wetland Park, a legislated protected area and a Ramsar-listed Wetland of International Importance. She also raised questions about the ECC issuance process, particularly regarding the