The Philippines and the Netherlands yesterday signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) about the cooperation of the two countries on the sustainable development and management of the Manila Bay area.
Under the MOU, the two governments will work together towards the formulation of the Manila Bay Sustainable Development Master Plan (MBSDMP), which aims to provide a comprehensive framework for the sustainable development and management of the entire Manila Bay area.
The completed master plan would guide future decision on programs and projects to be undertaken within the bay area such as coastal protection works, solid waste and water resources management, transport and land reclamation activities.
The agreement was signed between Socioeconomic Planning Secretary, Ernesto Pernia, and the Netherlands Ambassador to the Philippines, Marion Derckx, at the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) head office in Ortigas, Pasig City.
“ Water is an important part of our history and culture and it is a connecting force in our lives. Whenever there have been floods, the Dutch have banded together in building water infrastructure which have shaped our environment ,” said Derckx.
“We are fortunate to have the Dutch with us in this endeavor. Their extensive knowledge and experience in implementing programs and projects that protect vulnerable coastal zones are unparalleled, ” added Pernia.
Project implementation will last approximately 31 months.