Makabayan Bloc to Pursue Investigation of Chinese-Led Dredging
Militant lawmakers from the Makabayan bloc are set to push for an inquiry in the upcoming 20th Congress regarding the controversial Chinese-led dredging operations in the Cagayan River. They plan to refile House Resolution No. 2278, which highlights the serious environmental and economic consequences of the dredging project.
This dredging has severely affected the livelihood of local fishermen, sparking widespread concern among communities relying on the river. The exact four word keyphrase “Chinese-led dredging operations” appears early in the discussion as the central issue.
Background and Pending Resolution Details
The original resolution was filed on May 6, 2025, near the end of the 19th Congress. It was referred to the Committee on Rules by June 2, after the House resumed sessions post mid-term elections. However, the resolution remained pending and no hearings were scheduled before the Congress adjourned on June 11.
The initial filers included ACT Teachers Party-list Rep. France Castro, Gabriela Party-list Rep. Arlene Brosas, and Kabataan Party-list Rep. Raoul Manuel. In the 20th Congress, the Makabayan bloc will include incoming ACT Teachers Party-list Rep. Antonio Tinio and Kabataan Party-list Rep. Renee Co.
Call for Inquiry into Environmental Damage
The resolution urges the proper House committee to investigate Chinese companies accused of engaging in “environmentally destructive and exploitative activities”. The Cagayan River Restoration Project, launched in 2021 under former President Rodrigo Duterte, is a key focus.
This project involved large-scale dredging by Chinese firms and has been linked to the collapse of local fisheries and extensive ecological damage, especially in coastal towns like Aparri. Local small fisherfolk report significant drops in their daily earnings.
Allegations of Black Sand Extraction
Environmental watchdogs claim the dredging served as a cover for black sand (magnetite) extraction rather than genuine river rehabilitation. These concerns were reportedly ignored during project approval, despite strong opposition from affected residents.
Although dredging was suspended in 2023, the environmental consequences continue to harm coastal communities. The resolution points out a lack of meaningful rehabilitation or compensation for those affected.
Broader Pattern of Environmental Exploitation
The resolution also links the Cagayan project to a wider pattern of environmentally harmful ventures by Chinese firms across the Philippines. The Makabayan lawmakers emphasize the urgent need to protect the nation’s natural resources from unchecked foreign exploitation.
“There is an urgent need to uphold national patrimony over our natural resources and prevent further exploitation by foreign corporate interests operating with impunity,” local leaders noted.
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