Senator Manny Pacquiao expressed his support for the Panay-Guimaras-Negros bridges project, citing its potential to boost economic growth and create jobs in the countryside.
At the press conference of Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas in Victorias City, Pacquiao underscored the importance of ensuring that infrastructure development does not harm the environment, particularly the endangered Irrawaddy dolphins in Pulupandan and Bago City.
“Part of economic development is improving transportation, and this bridge is a key infrastructure project that will accelerate progress – But at the same time, we must protect our environment. When I was part of the Task Force Kalikasan, we ensured that development projects did not damage nature.”
Pacquiao says there are new technologies that allow the construction of bridges without harming corals and critical habitats, as seen in other countries.
Pacquiao emphasized that government supervision is essential in the project’s implementation to ensure ecological and biodiversity safeguards.
He believes that with proper planning and modern engineering solutions, infrastructure and environmental protection can go hand in hand to develop the countryside.
“This bridge will greatly benefit the people living in this region, making travel faster and boosting the economy,” he added. “Our country is made up of many islands, so projects like this are necessary for national development.”
Pacquiao believes that the administration party can implement a legislative agenda that will balance progress with conservation to protect the country’s rich biodiversity.*
