DENR gives Nickelodeon theme park project in Palawan the thumbs down

Environment Secretary Gina Lopez has shunned the plan by US children's television network Nickelodeon to build an underwater resort and theme park in Palawan.

In post on Twitter, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) quoted Lopez as saying she "won't allow the underwater theme park in Palawan."

Her statement comes on the heels of an announcement by Viacom International Media Networks to build a park in Palawan. Viacom owns Nickelodeon.

Lopez says she won't allow the underwater theme park in Palawan. #environment2017

— DENR (@DENR_Official) January 11, 2017

The plan supposedly encompasses a 400-hectare (1,000-acre) undersea development showcasing marine life in the area.

Environmental groups slammed the plan, claiming it would destroy the world-famous marine ecosystem. Conservationists call Palawan "the last frontier" for its pristine forest and coastlines, which are among the oldest and most diverse in Southeast Asia.

The Palawan Council for Sustainable Development, a government body, said the project had yet to be approved. — Ted Cordero/VS, GMA News