Laguna Lake eyed as Metro transport solution

In a monumental plan to ease the traffic woes in Metro Manila and nearby provinces, the Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission (PRRC) joined forces with the Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA) in forming a multimodal express that will traverse Pasig River and Laguna de Bay.

The meeting in Quezon City gained positive response as this would serve as a welcome respite to the frustration of millions over the growing traffic congestion problem not only in the metropolis but also in its neighboring areas.

Presided by PRRC Executive Director Jose Antonio Goiti and LLDA General Manager Jaime Medina the plan provides the public with a vision of a colossal project that would transform the Pasig River into a viable means of transport.

Goitia noted that the project would provide reliable and efficient modes of water and light rail transportation to over 15 million commuters of Metro Manila and the Province of Laguna.

Ultimately, Goiti said the ambitious project would restore the water quality of the Pasig River to Class C level that supports and sustains aquatic life and resources – conducive for transport, recreation and tourism.

Fear of demolition Meanwhile, several small fishermen in Jala-Jala, Rizal, who rely solely on their daily catch to sustain the basic needs of their respective families are worried that the next wave of demolition on the Laguna Lake would affect small fisherfolk in this part of the province.

Vice Mayor Jolet delos Santos said fishermen have been seeking the intervention of the local government officials here in calling the attention of the LLDA and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to reconsider the plan to dismantle all the structures in the country’s largest fresh water lake including small fish cages owned by the fisherfolks.

Delos Santos, along with several councilors and local officials, sought an audience with LLDA officials to echo the sentiments of the fishermen last Wednesday, but failed to get to talk to Medina.

LLDA officials, however, assured that the next round of demolitions happening in the first week of April, would still focus on fish pens that are corporate-owned.