Marcos pushes stricter enforcement of ‘no-build zones’ amid floods

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is calling for stricter enforcement of “no-build zone” policies and other measures aimed at reducing flooding and protecting communities from the effects of climate change, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said Tuesday.

He issued the directive during a Central Luzon and Metro Manila Response Meeting with key Cabinet officials and local chief executives on Monday in Malacañang.

READ: Marcos orders national response as NCR, Central Luzon floods persist

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“According to the president, the law must be enforced, including the “no-build zone” policy. Let us stop politicizing the issue. Enforce the law. It must be explained to everyone that stricter enforcement of the law is necessary for our safety,” Castro said during a briefing.

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“For LGUs, enforce the “no-build zones.” Ensure that your respective jurisdictions are properly maintained, work together to clear obstructions from waterways, and make sure that garbage is collected and disposed of at proper disposal sites,” she added.

In the same briefing, Castro said Marcos wants greater focus on climate change mitigation and adaptation.

“There is no need for us to blame one another. Whatever shortcomings may have occurred under the previous administration will not be tolerated by the president,” she said.

“The president is particularly focused on the effects of climate change, as we are increasingly witnessing and experiencing the full force of nature’s fury,” she added.

She said the government will also strengthen coordination with the Climate Change Commission, which is chaired by Marcos, to identify gaps in the implementation of climate policies and ensure that its recommendations reach the president. /mcm