In 1975, environmental planner Architect Felino “Jun” Palafox and colleagues from the Planning and Project Development Office of the Department of Public Works, Transportation, and Communication unveiled the Manila Bay Metropolitan Region Strategic Plan. They emphasized the importance of not only focusing on the metropolitan area but targeting the provinces and cities beyond. This is why the MBMR comprises Manila and the provinces of Rizal, Cavite, Batangas, Laguna, Bulacan, Pampanga, Bataan, and Zambales. Back in 1975, planners had identified how economic development and social uplift must transpire simultaneously with environmental protection and cultural advancement. Until today, Manila Bay holds a primary role in the Philippines’ economic growth as the area.

Lopez, T. (2019, February 8). How to rehabilitate Manila Bay. Manila Standard, p. A5.