The Dolomite Beach in Manila Bay reopened to the public on Oct. 16, the first day of less strict quarantines in the capital region, attracting throngs of people who were eager to see the patch of artificial white sand.
Swimming is prohibited, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources said of the beach that was built to ease the strain of the lockdown's on Filipinos' mental health.
Cleanups have made "significant improvement in its water quality” but it remains unfit for swimming, said Environment Sec. Roy Cimatu.
“We will gradually expand the area accessible to the public for viewing in the coming weeks as we progress on with the completion of the project,” he said in a statement.
For those who are planning to visit the Dolomite Beach, you can do so from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. daily. Unlike before when there was a five-minute time limit per visitor, the DENR said visitors can now stay at the beach for as long as they want.
Aside from the "no swimming" policy, here are other rules you need to know when visiting the Dolomite Beach according to the DENR:
1. Wearing face mask is mandatory but the use of face shield is optional.
2. Proof of COVID-19 vaccination is not required.
3. Visitors are also not allowed to bring food, drinks, and pets.
4. Spitting and littering are prohibited.
5. Visitors cannot pick up dolomite sand.
Critics have questioned the sustainability of the nearly P400-million project as strong rains and high waves, even without typhoons, cover the beach with trash.
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