Photo courtesy of Philippine Reclamation Authority (PRA).
The Philippine Reclamation Authority (PRA) said on Monday that it is advancing sustainable coastal development by engaging international partners while cracking down on illegal reclamation projects nationwide.
PRA officials recently visited the United Arab Emirates to meet with industry leaders, sharing best practices on environmentally responsible coastal and marine development and exploring potential investment opportunities for the Philippines.
The meetings, held at the invitation of NMDC Business Group, a major global engineering and marine services company, focused on balancing environmental protection with economic growth.
Led by PRA Chairperson Alex Lopez, the delegation emphasized support for the country’s infrastructure and coastal development priorities, linking the discussions to a trade agreement signed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on January 12, 2026.
Domestically, the PRA stressed that all reclamation projects require prior approval and warned that unauthorized projects could face cease-and-desist orders, forfeiture of land, and potential legal penalties.
Legitimate projects continue to undergo a strict review process to ensure public safety and environmental protection, the agency said.
The PRA said its international collaboration and intensified enforcement highlight its commitment to sustainable development, legal compliance, and environmental stewardship in Philippine reclamation activities.