The land reclamation at the Iloilo River to further extend the Iloilo Esplanade could kill mangroves growing there, warned the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region 6. The land reclamation for an embankment from Sen. Benigno S. Aquino Jr. Avenue Bridge to Jalandoni Bridge (Esplanade 4) and all the way to Forbes Bridge (Esplanade 6) would deprive mangroves of seawater, according to Director Jim Sampulna. The Iloilo River, passing through 35 barangays, is a source of livelihood for fisherfolk and a habitat and nursery for many fish species, thanks mainly to the lush mangroves growing on its banks.

Sologastoa, G. (2017, July 28). Tourism vs Environment: Esplanade extension could kill Iloilo River mangroves. Panay News, pp. 1, 13.