Buffer zone in wetland park needed – Villar

BY HANNAH L. TORREGOZA

Senator Cynthia Villar has cited the need to set a buffer zone in the 182-hectare Las Piñas-Parañaque Wetland Park to better provide protection in the area.

Villar, who chairs the Senate Committee on Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change, on Sunday called on the Department of Natural Resources (DENR), to do its task to protect the area.

She made the call as the country observes the 8th year anniversary of the wetland’s designation as the 6th Philippine Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention on Monday, March 15.

The Ramsar Convention or the Convention on Wetlands is an intergovernmental treaty that recognizes the fundamental ecological value of wetlands.

The Convention primarily seeks to curb encroachment on wetlands, its possible degradation now and in the future.

As a signatory to the Convention, the Philippine is obligated to conserve and protect the Ramsar-listed Philippine wetlands and their resources.

“To fulfill the government’s obligations under the Ramsar Convention and maintain the protected area status of the wetland, DENR should be proactive to repel the impending threats confronting Las Piñas – Paranaque Wetland Park, including the reclamation projects in proximity to the wetland,” Villar said in a statement.

Villar, who has consistently stood up against reclamation in the area and in neighboring vicinities, said establishing a buffer zone in the wetland park, also known as the Las Piñas – Parañaque Critical Habitat and Ecotourism Area (LPPCHEA) will ensure better protection “not only to the wetland itself, but also to the wildlife it supports.” (Hannah Torregoza)