Flooding & Disaster Response

Coastal erosion from dredging operations displaces residents in Zambales

Dredging operations in Zambales since 2022, conducted under DENR Administrative Order No. 13 to prevent flooding, have caused severe coastal erosion with shorelines receding and seawater now reaching residential homes during high tide. Residents, particularly fishermen, blame sand removal from dredging activities for the erosion and lack of consultation on offshore operations, while recent heavy rains have displaced 604 families; locals seek long-term coastal protection and livelihood assistance rather than temporary relief.