MANILA —The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) will realign certain portions of the Iloilo River Esplanade projects to preserve the mangroves that may be affected by the original alignment.
In his report to DPWH Secretary Mark A. Villar on Friday, DPWH Region 6 Director Wenceslao M. Leaño Jr. said mangrove experts, various non-government organizations and those from the academe – in consultation meetings with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) – agreed that the realignment of some portions of the projects would address the apprehensions of some environmental groups regarding its impact to the mangroves.
“Taking into consideration the suggestion from our stakeholders and experts, we will retain the mangroves that will be affected by some sections of Esplanade 6,” Leaño said.
He said DPWH would no longer touch about 10 kms of mangroves covered by the Esplanade sections, adding that the agency would ask for consideration for those mangroves that would inevitably be affected by the projects.
The Iloilo Esplanade River Project aims to rehabilitate and protect the Iloilo River and promote active lifestyle, while showcasing the serene view of the river.
It adopts the concept of pedestrianization of roads by improving aesthetics and safety of streets/sidewalks or areas for exclusive use of pedestrians.
With this, Leaño ensured that the department would complement its preservation program with the planting of mangroves scheduled next month in various areas that are still open.
“We will move forward and learn from these experiences so that similar projects that we will implement in the future are acceptable to all sectors; and to ensure the sustainability of these development initiatives, a striking a balance between development and the preservation and conservation of our environment,” Leano said. (Ferdinand Patinio/PNA)