CAPIZ – Foreshore areas of the region’s Sea Food Capital are up for development despite the ongoing pandemic.
Recently, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) represented by DENR 6 regional executive director Livino B. Duran and the Capiz provincial government represented by Governor Esteban Evan B. Contreras signed the Memorandum of Partnership Agreement (MOPA) to spearhead the implementation of the Capiz Provincial Foreshore Development and Management Plan (PFDMP).
This move aims to address the long-stalled development of the foreshore areas in the seafood capital of the region.
Under PFDMP, the highest and best uses of a particular foreshore area in Capiz province will be identified.
The DENR 6 along with other national government agencies and local government units agreed to attain the vision for the Capiz foreshore area “as globally competitive” and turn them into “premier ecotourism hubs managed by empowered and resilient Capiznons.”
“It will now be a shared responsibility between DENR 6 and LGU Capiz against illegal settlements/developments. It is now time we both properly manage Capiz’ foreshore areas and if they [settlers/businesses] seek to be legally allowed, proper management system shall be put in place for payments of administrative fees due to the government,” said Duran.
Tourists to the province of Capiz relish the experience of dining in the alfresco setting especially in the famous Baybay Beach in Roxas City where one gets the taste of fresh, delectable seafood.
For decades, however, such foreshore areas are used for free by businessmen and have not been regulated properly.
A Provincial Foreshore Area Development and Management Council (PFADMC) shall also be created to improve, develop, manage, protect and conserve the foreshore areas in the province of Capiz./(with a report from DENR 6)/PN
