Anti-POGO Senator Sherwin Gatchalian defends family’s US$611 million Manila Bay CBD and casino development as US Embassy raises concerns – IAG – Medical Marijuana Program Connection

Philippines Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, who has made headlines in recent months for his vehement opposition of the POGO industry, has denied any direct involvement in a Php 34.3 billion (US$611 million) Manila Bay reclamation project being led by his family’s Waterfront Manila Premier Development Inc (MWPDI).

However, he told the Kapihan sa Manila Bay Forum last week that he knows all processes have been properly followed amid concerns raised by the US Embassy – particularly around the involvement of Chinese construction firm China Communications Construction Co (CCCC), which is blacklisted by Washington.

The project by Waterfront Manila Premier Development Inc is located to the south of Manila South Harbor and is set to include an entertainment complex with a casino as well as a central business district, health and education hubs. It will cover 318 hectares of reclaimed and existing land.

According to a report by Philstar, Senator Gatchalian told last week’s forum upon being questioned, “I don’t deny that my father is connected to the project. I know for a fact that reclamation projects here behind the Sofitel Philippine Plaza … all went through the process. I don’t deny that (it’s) my dad’s project, but I don’t meddle with the business.

“It went through a thorough process. PRA (Philippine Reclamation Authority) and the DENR (Department of Environment and Natural Resources) issued permits. They have gone through the process. It would be unfair if…