Statement of Sen. Cynthia Villar on the passing of Gina Lopez

With the passing of Gina Lopez, we have lost a staunch ally in our advocacy to protect the environment.

It was during her stint as Secretary of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources when the environment clearance certificate issued to companies pushing for the reclamation of Manila Bay was canceled.

The reclamation project when allowed to proceed, will kill the mangroves and endanger the wildlife in the Las Piñas- Parañaque Wetland Park, a Ramsar site as a Wetland of International Importance.

I am sending my family's deepest condolences to the Lopez Family and join them in praying for her soul's eternal repose.