An additional P265-million budget is allotted for the second phase of the Manila Bay dolomite sand project, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) confirmed to Rappler on Monday, May 10.

This is on top of the earlier P389-million budget announced last year.

This is a continuation of the beach nourishment project from the 2019 Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). The artificial beach is expected to be finished by the third quarter of 2022. 

In the second phase of the Baywalk project, the existing stretch of white sand near the US embassy will be replenished to achieve the one-meter thickness of sand indicated in their initial plan.

The stretch of sand will expand towards Padre Faura outfall “with a length of 140 meters and varying widths ranging from 60-120 meters,” according to the DENR.

Miscellaneous activities such as installation of solar lighting, temporary fence, and fishing wharf are also covered in the budget.

The Manila Baywalk project drew ire from the public for its controversial premise of beautification and environmental gains, and the environment department’s inability to present an environmental compliance certificate. 

Experts have also warned that the sand will be washed out during typhoon season.

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Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia had “allowed a very specific volume” despite a ban of shipment of dolomite sand from the Municipality of Alcoy. 

Garcia has approved the DENR’s request dated December 3, 2020, to ship 8,600 cubic meters dolomite sand and 6,600 cubic meters dolomite pebbles for the completion of the rehabilitation project. 

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DENR said the new delivery of sand costs P29,608,590.00, while the pebbles amounted to P21,516,792.00. 

Two shipments of 3 metric tons of sand arrived in Manila in February and March 2021, Cebu Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer Rodel Bontuyan confirmed. – Rappler.com