DENR 6, LGU Capiz ink MOPA, Capiz’ foreshore areas up for development

Foreshore areas of the region’s Sea Food Capital is up for development despite the ongoing pandemic.

In a strategic move to address the long-stalled development of the foreshore areas in the seafood capital of the region, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in Region 6 and the provincial government of Capiz inked a Memorandum of Partnership Agreement (MOPA) to spearhead the implementation of the Capiz Provincial Foreshore Development and Management Plan (PFDMP).

On Feb 9, 2022, DENR 6 regional executive director Livino B. Duran along with Capiz provincial governor Esteban Evan B. Contreras signed the MOPA thereby binding the commitments agreed by both parties outlined in the said document.

The Plan shall identify the highest and best uses of a particular foreshore area in Capiz province. The DENR 6 along with other national government agencies and local government units agreed to attain the vision for Capiz foreshore area “as globally competitive” and turn them as “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 DENR 6 regional executive director Livino B. Duran.

Tourists to the province of Capiz relish the experience of dining in the al fresco setting especially in the famous Baybay Beach in Roxas City where one gets the taste of fresh, delectable seafoods. For decades however, such foreshore area are used for free by businessmen and have not been regulated properly by the local government unit or the DENR.

A Provincial Foreshore Area Development and Management Council (PFADMC) shall be created to improve, develop, manage, protect and conserve the foreshore areas in the province of Capiz. (DENR-6)