The House Committee on Public Accounts has postponed its scheduled hearing on the Manila Bay Dolomite Beach due to the absence of key resource persons, officials confirmed Tuesday.
Chairman Terry Ridon said the investigation, originally set for Wednesday, will be rescheduled to ensure the participation of all necessary witnesses. The hearing aims to examine environmental concerns surrounding the Dolomite Beach project, which critics claim were neglected by the previous administration.
Ridon sponsored House Resolution No. 56, seeking a formal review of the beach’s compliance with environmental standards. The resolution also calls for evaluation of the project’s alignment with the Manila Bay Sustainable Development Master Plan and adherence to the Supreme Court’s Continuing Mandamus order for the rehabilitation of Manila Bay.
The postponement has drawn attention from environmental advocates and lawmakers who have previously raised concerns about the ecological impact of the artificial white sand beach. The review intends to determine whether proper assessments were conducted and if the project meets long-term sustainability requirements.
Committee members emphasized that the rescheduled hearing will provide a full opportunity for resource persons, including government officials and environmental experts, to present their findings.
The House investigation highlights ongoing public scrutiny over projects implemented along Manila Bay, with officials balancing development initiatives against environmental protection mandates. The new date for the hearing has not yet been announced, pending confirmation from all parties involved.