Malacañang Requests Review of Dredging Operations in Zambales
SAN ANTONIO, Zambales — Malacañang has called on the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to thoroughly review dredging operations in Zambales. This move follows urgent appeals from environmental groups and local residents to suspend and audit these activities due to concerns over their impact on livelihoods and ecosystems.
Deputy Executive Secretary for General Administration Naella Bainto Aguinaldo formally referred a letter from the Zambales Ecological Network Inc. (ZEN) to DENR Secretary Raphael Perpetuo Lotilla on Monday. The letter, dated August 8, urged the government to issue an executive order repealing DENR Administrative Order No. 13 (DAO) and to immediately suspend and audit all dredging projects in the province.
Background on Dredging Operations and Environmental Concerns
Under DAO 13, dredging is part of river restoration efforts aimed at rehabilitating heavily silted waterways. These include the Bucao River in Botolan, the Maloma River in San Felipe, and the Sto. Tomas River, which runs through San Marcelino, San Narciso, and San Felipe. The primary goal is to prevent flooding by clearing sediment buildup.
However, community members and environmental advocates have raised alarms about the dredging’s effects on local ecosystems and the livelihoods that depend on them. “Nakakaapekto talaga sa kabuhayan ng mga tao dito,” a local leader remarked, emphasizing the social impact.
Malacañang’s Neutral Stance and Next Steps
In its referral letter, Malacañang clarified that the endorsement to DENR should not be interpreted as favoring any party. Instead, it serves to forward the request for proper evaluation. The DENR has been tasked to submit its recommendations to the Office of the President, including any draft issuances and supporting documents, following the requirements for comprehensive staff work.
Officials noted that this process aims to ensure that all dredging activities comply with environmental standards and consider the welfare of affected communities.
Previous Suspension and Community Protests
Last year, the provincial government suspended all dredging operations after residents of San Felipe expressed strong opposition. They were alarmed by the presence of 17 Chinese dredging vessels operating in municipal waters. Despite ongoing protests, the suspension was lifted three months later, allowing dredging to resume.
Local leaders continue to voice concerns, urging authorities to balance flood prevention with environmental preservation and community rights.
For more news and updates on dredging operations in Zambales, visit Filipinokami.com.
