THE social advocacy arm of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) yesterday asked the faithful to help defend Manila Bay which is being threatened by massive reclamation projects.
An event dubbed “People’s Earth Day Gathering to Defend Manila Bay” is set to held in Caloocan City and Navotas City on Saturday.
“Let’s celebrate Earth Day 2024 by raising our voices for a cleaner Manila Bay,” Caritas Philippines said in a social media post.
The Philippine Reclamation Authority recently announced a possible resumption of at least four reclamation projects in Manila Bay – Philippine Fisheries Development Authority Navotas Fish Port reclamation project; Bacoor 90-hectare reclamation project, which was part of the overall Bacoor Reclamation and Development Project; Navotas 650-hectare reclamation project; and the Manila Solar reclamation project.
This despite an order from President Marcos Jr. on an indefinite suspension of 22 major land reclamation projects in Manila Bay in late 2023.
The first event on April 20 will be the formation of the “Reflection Circle: Seek Justice Like a River” at the Diocesan Shrine and Parish of Our Lady of Grace in Grace Park – East, Caloocan City from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.
The second event is the “Solidarity Action and Human Chain Formation” to be held at the Navotas City Fountain located in M. Naval St., Navotas City from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.
Caritas Philippines said those joining the activities are advised to wear hat/s or caps to stay cool under the sun, bring water bottles to stay hydrated, and wear blue, green, or white shirts.
Organizers of the events on Saturday include EcoConvergence, Ministry of Ecology – Diocese of Kalookan, People’s Network for the Integrity of Coastal Habitats and Ecosystems, Ecumenical Bishops Forum, National Council of Churches in the Philippines, Promotion of People’s Church Response, Defend Manila Bay, and Church People-Workers Solidarity
Caritas Philippines president Bishop Jose Colin Bagaforo said the public’s support for the protection of Manila Bay is necessary as its destruction has a massive effect on everyone.
“Protecting our environment is not just an environmental issue. It’s a social justice issue.
Manila Bay is more than just an ecological marvel. It’s the lifeblood of fisherfolk and entire communities,” he said in a statement,
