Cause of pollution in Manila Bay bared

The Role of Cause of Pollution in Manila Bay Bared

60-Character Title PRA Identifies Inadequate Waste Management as Primary Cause of Manila Bay's Environmental Decline

As the debate on reclamation activities in Manila Bay continues, the Philippine Reclamation Authority (PRA) has clarified the true cause of the bay's environmental decline decades of inadequate waste and sewage management. According to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources' Cumulative Impact Assessment, the majority of pollution in Manila Bay originates from untreated wastewater and solid waste flowing into the bay through rivers and drainage systems.

This is not a new problem, but rather a symptom of longstanding gaps in infrastructure and weak enforcement of environmental laws. The PRA has emphasized that it is essential to address these systemic failures, which have been ignored for far too long, rather than focusing on reclamation activities as the primary cause of pollution.

PRA Chairman Alexander Lopez underscored the importance of clarity It's not reclamation that's polluting Manila Bay. It's the daily, unchecked flow of sewage and garbage into its waters — problems that demand immediate attention. To address these issues, the PRA is reviewing data from the CIA alongside other scientific models to strengthen its regulatory framework and ensure that policy responses are based on a comprehensive understanding of the problem.

The agency is also working closely with national agencies and water providers to expand sewerage systems, improve waste treatment, and integrate water-quality interventions into reclamation planning. This collaborative approach aims to mitigate the impact of pollution on Manila Bay's ecosystem.

In addition to identifying the sources of pollution, the PRA has highlighted the importance of proper reclamation practices. While sustainable reclamation is possible when properly planned and regulated, illegal and unregulated reclamations pose serious flood and safety risks. The agency is working with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the Department of Justice, and the Office of the President to dismantle these unauthorized developments.

To enhance climate resilience, the PRA is investing in nature-based solutions, including mangrove reforestation in select reclaimed zones. These ecosystems not only protect against storm surges but also enhance water quality and biodiversity.

In conclusion, the PRA has emphasized the importance of science-driven decision-making in addressing the environmental decline of Manila Bay. By focusing on proper waste management and sustainable reclamation practices, the agency is committed to inter-agency cooperation and the Marcos administration's Bagong Pilipinas agenda — one that balances development with environmental integrity.

Subheadings

The True Cause of Manila Bay's Environmental Decline
Systemic Failures Contributing to Pollution
Addressing the Problems A Call to Action
The Importance of Proper Reclamation Practices
* Investing in Nature-Based Solutions for Climate Resilience

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

Enjoy the little things in life. For one day, you may look back and realize they were the big things. Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.