Makabayan Bloc Seeks Probe Into White Sand Initiative In Manila Bay
MANILA BAY – Lawmakers of Makabayan bloc are currently seeking a probe into the Manila Bay “white sand” initiative.
The controversial “white sand” project was part of the artificial rehabilitation program of the bay, according to a report from CNN Philippines.
The group filed Tuesday House Resolution 1194 which gave a directive to the lower chamber to initiate and inquiry in aid of legislation on DENR and DPWH’s joint project along the bay’s 500-meter coastline which drew flak from the public.
The resolution which was signed by Bayan Muna Partylist Reps. Eufemia Cullamat, Carlos Zarate, Ferdinand Gaite, GABRIELA Partylist Rep. Arlene Brosas, ACT-Teachers Partylist Rep. France Castro, and Kabataan Partylist Rep. Sarah Elago, was recently shown to the media on Wednesday.
Home Resolution 1194 noted the call of environmental groups on the government’s initiative on the said bay.
VISIT: Manila Bay White Sand Project Violates NCHA, Other Laws, Env. Groups Say
The HR 1194 can be read in a post on Twitter by CNN Correspondent Xianne Arcangel, which you can check right here:
The HR also cited statement from University of the Philippines Institute of Maritime Affairs and Law of the Sea Director Jay Batongbacal regarding the potential hazard that dolomite rocks may bring, such as damage to the lungs or trigger cancer due to exposure to carcinogen.
Based on the report, Health Spokesperson Rosario Vergeire also said that it can also cause irritation in the eyes, and discomfort in the gastrointestinal system, pain, and diarrhea once ingested based on medical studies.
Regarding the hazards of dolomite rocks, you can check out the Safety Data Sheet from US-based building materials and aggregates supplier Lehigh Hanson.
Cebu provincial board members also sought probe into the extraction of said rock from their area to overlay the “white sand” along the coast line of the bay without their information. The DENR, however, already defended the move, citing that the project was done with “engineering intervention.”
The government of Cebu, however, issued a cease and desist order against Dolomite Mining Corporation and the Philippine Mining Service Corporation in Alcoy town. The said firms were behind the mineral extraction.
What do you think of this report? How will you react to this? Let us know more about it in the comments below.
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