DENR eyes ‘swimmable’ Manila Bay before end of Duterte’s term

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is aiming to make the Manila Bay "swimmable" before President Rodrigo Duterte's term ends next year, its official said Wednesday.

At the Laging Handa public briefing, DENR spokesperson Undersecretary Benny Antiporda pointed out that the goal is not impossible.

“Kaunti na lang po. Actually, nakikita ng ating Kalihim na ipinipilit na bago matapos ang administrasyong ito ay maging swimmable na ang area na 'yan,” he added.

(We just have to make the water a little cleaner. Actually, our Secretary [Roy Cimatu] sees that it is being pushed to make the area swimmable before the end of this administration.)

According to Antiporda, the fecal coliform level in Manila Bay has significantly decreased.

He added that the DENR wants to make the dolomite beach a tourist spot to revive the businesses in the area.

In June, the DENR said it is expediting the rehabilitation of Manila Bay. — BM, GMA News