Phl, Netherlands link up for Manila Bay sustainable development

The Philippines and the Netherlands will work toward the formation of a Manila Bay master plan to provide a comprehensive framework for the sustainable development and management of the bay.

Following the signing of a memorandum of understanding on cooperation in the sustainable development of the Manila Bay area on Jan. 22, Socioeconomic Planning Secretary and NEDA director general Ernesto Pernia said the MOU will address an issue of critical importance: balance between economic growth and sustainability of the environment.

Pernia and Dutch Ambassador Marion Derckx exchanged the signed documents of the MOU.

He praised the Dutch for having unparalleled and extensive knowledge and experience in programs and projects that protect vulnerable coastal zones, adding that having the Dutch as partners is valuable for the Philippines.

For her part, Derckx said that as in similar projects that they had in Vietnam, Myanmar and Indonesia, they will not only contribute to the local expertise and sustainable development, but will also learn from working with their Filipino partners, thus enriching the Dutch’s own knowledge in developing partnerships.

Pernia described the signing of the MOU as a solid commitment to preserving a proud heritage for future generations of Filipinos.