The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) clarified that coastal erosion in Zambales cannot be attributed to ongoing dredging in the province’s major rivers, including Sto. Tomas, Maloma, and Maculcol.
DENR Region 3 Executive Director Ralph Pablo said no studies directly link dredging to shoreline damage, noting that many affected structures were illegally built within coastal easements.
Satellite imagery and historical mapping show general shoreline accretion over the years, and erosion is influenced by seasonal monsoon patterns.
Notices of Violation have been issued to resort and home owners for illegal construction, while authorized dredging activities by Shuaful Resources Inc. continue under inter-agency monitoring.
Pablo emphasized that the dredging complies with regulations and involves no cost to the government.
Source: PhilNews24 | January 16, 2026
