Malacañang said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will not intervene in the House of Representatives’ planned inquiry into the Manila Bay dolomite beach project, stressing the independence of the legislative branch.
Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro underscored the constitutional boundaries between branches of government, noting that lawmakers were acting within their mandate.
“We would like to remind everyone that there is a separation of powers,” she said. “So, whatever actions or investigations the House of Representatives undertakes regarding the Dolomite Beach issue are within their mandate, and the President will not interfere with any of their proceedings.”
The controversial artificial beach, launched during former president Rodrigo Duterte’s administration, has drawn renewed scrutiny amid recent flooding in Metro Manila. Castro acknowledged that the hearing could help determine whether the project contributed to environmental issues or involved irregularities.
“This move could also serve as a way to determine whether there were indeed anomalies involved, if it contributed to the flooding in Metro Manila, and if it had any impact on the country’s environment,” she stated.
She rejected claims that the inquiry was politically driven, saying it is “not right” to assume investigations into previous administrations automatically equate to partisan intent.
“It does not necessarily mean that when projects from the previous administration are being investigated, it is already an act of politicking,” Castro said, adding that such scrutiny ensures accountability.
Castro also pushed back against suggestions that Marcos instigated the probe, urging critics to present evidence before making accusations.
“Before they make such statements, they should first prove that the President is behind the Dolomite Beach probe,” she said. “If there’s no proof and it’s just speculation… that would be unreasonable and unfair to him.”
