Rep. De Lima wants probe into China dredging ops in Zambales

Rep. Leila de Lima is urging Malacañang to investigate the dredging activities of China Harbour Engineering Company Ltd. (CHEC) in Zambales.

Residents and fisherfolk in San Felipe, Zambales, have raised concerns that the operations pose a threat to their communities and the local ecosystem.

De Lima filed House Resolution No. 424, which seeks a congressional inquiry into the Chinese construction company's contracts and compliance with local regulations.

The investigation aims to determine the legality and scope of CHEC's operations, along with their environmental and coastal community impacts, and to formulate stronger environmental safeguards, transparency mechanisms, and accountability measures.

She warned that unchecked dredging operations would mean neglecting the welfare and concerns of Filipinos.

CHEC is reportedly a state-owned company under China Communications Construction Company.