October 27, 2022 saw the launching of the Cebu Alliance against Reclamation for Life and Environment (CARE for Life) in the Pilgrim Center of the Basilica del Sto. Nino Church in Cebu City.
The launching saw the coming together of representatives of various sectors including the youth groups, fisherfolks, peasants, women, religious sector, urban poor, and other concerned individuals, united to oppose reclamation projects and advocate for sustainable and inclusive development. CARE for Life firmly believes that nature is a gift for everyone and that it needs to be nurtured and protected.
During the launching, Dr. Posadas discussed extensively about the different reclamation projects in Cebu and their adverse effects. Sabiniana Castro, President of the Sitio Napo Residents’ Association in Guindarohan also discussed about the quarrying in their sitio. This was followed by three workshops participated in by the groups to discuss about their plans to disseminate information regarding the goals of the alliance.
While the alliance stands against all reclamation projects, the CARE for Life at present is specifically opposed to the 100-hectare Minglanilla Reclamation Project due to its magnitude. With visits of personnel from the Assessor’s Office to coastline households in Calajoan and Tungkil to tell the residents that they face demolition, the fears from fisherfolks that their livelihoods are imperiled, and countless studies on the massive destruction to marine life, it is urgent that immediate action should be mobilized to stop the Minglanilla Reclamation Project.
The CARE for Life is envisioned to serve as a unifying force for all concerned individuals and organizations against the Minglanilla Reclamation Project and its consequent destructive activities such as quarrying and demolition of houses. The alliance will spearhead campaigns, dialogues and educational activities to drum up opposition to the reclamation project.
The CARE for Life and Environment shall banner the following calls, namely:
- Stop the Minglanilla Reclamation Project and other Reclamation Projects!
- Stop the demolition due to reclamation!
- Protect and defend the livelihood of fisherfolks and farmers!
- Protect life and the environment!
Protect the security of housing!
