The multi-million expansion project of the Iloilo Esplanade has been criticized both by environmentalists and residents who warned about the destruction of the mangroves. A pet project of Ilonggo Senator Franklin Drilon, the river park, patterned after the Singapore Quay and designed by renowned Filipino architect Paulo Alcazaren is supposed to run for 7.5 kilometers. DENR allowed the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to transplant the mangroves from the riverbanks, where construction is going on.

Yap, T. (2018, March 23). DENR halts 'balling' of mangroves. Manila Bulletin, p. 7.