Yo Manila|Oceana urges test and monitoring of Manila Bay waters|Science-based and policy-oriented international non-government organization, Oceana, urges the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the Department of Agriculture and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources to investigate the reported change in color of the surface of the historic Manila Bay.
“This development requires immediate study and continuous monitoring by experts on the water and its impact on the fisheries resources and marine environment of Manila Bay. The government, while appropriately engulfed in public health response to COVID-19 crisis, should also look into this potential public health and environmental concern, not only for Metro Manila but in nearby provinces, cities and municipalities,” said Atty. Gloria Estenzo Ramos, Oceana Vice President.
Oceana is a member of the People’s Network for the Integrity of Coastal Habitats and Ecosystems (People’s NICHE), an alliance calling for the restoration, instead of reclamation, of the health and abundance of the coastal waters of Manila Bay.
“The people’s expressed interest on this observed change in color of the surface of the bay indicates a heightened awareness and concern in protecting not only the heritage and beauty of the world renowned sunset view, but also the benefits of its marine resources for the people dependent on this body of water for their livelihood,” said Ramos.
The government’s own study from the National Fisheries and Research Development Institute (NFRDI) shows that Manila Bay is a premier fishing ground for sardines, mackerel, mullet (banak), threadfin, bream (bisugo), squid (posit), blue crab, round scad (galunggong), and fusilier (dalagang bukid).
Oceana and partners from People’s NICHE, civil society and the private sectors, oppose the illegal dumping and filling of Manila Bay’s coastline because of the irreversible damage it brings on one of the Philippines’ major marine ecosystems and fisheries.
Oceana is an international advocacy organization dedicated to protecting the world’s oceans. Since 2014, Oceana has been working closely with national and local government agencies, civil society, fisherfolk and other stakeholders to restore the abundance of Philippine fisheries and marine resources.
