In this photo taken on November 9, 2016, Kim Gargar, spokesperson of environmental group Panalipdan said that the implementation of the Davao Coastline and Port Development Project will destroy marine life ecosystems, not only in the areas to be reclaimed, but from the areas where suitable earth materials will be extracted to be used in the reclamation during the public forum on the project at the Sangguniang Panlungsod building in Davao City.(Paulo C. Rizal/davaotoday.com)
DAVAO CITY, Philippines — Militant groups Bagong Alyansang Makabayn, along with Kadamay and Panalipdan,welcomed Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio’s decision to put a halt to the Davao Coastline and Development Project.
The P40-billion project, which was inked during the term of now President Rodrigo Duterte, would have turned the city’s coastline into a 200-hectare mixed-use complex, including an international port, commercial, residential and government office components through reclamation.
The project was a joint venture with the Mega Harbour Port and Development Corporation.
In a statement, Bagong Alyansang Makabayan Southern Mindanao Region secretary general Sheena Duazo said the project would have resulted to the demolition of poor communities residing in the coastlines, notwithstanding its environmental impact.
“The said project will mainly engage into extracting soil from our main lands and pouring it to the seas which will greatly affect marine ecosystems and will make our streets more prone to flood,” Duazo said.
Duazo said the mayor’s decision should “serve as a wake up call” to government officials who pushed for the project’s approval.
“They must foremost ensure that amidst and above all big business interests, environmental interest must not be gambled,” Duazo added.
In a statement, the Duterte-Carpio said she understood the legal implications of her decision, but assured that her government is ready to answer questions “in the proper forum.”
“I assure you, all Davaoenos, that in coming up with this decision, the paramount consideration has been your welfare and the future of Davao City,” she said.
The mayor is scheduled to hold a press briefing on her decision on Monday, July 31.(davaotoday.com)
