Manila, Feb. 5 -- The Sangguniang Panlungsod (city council) here is requesting Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Raphael Perpetuo Lotilla to adopt emergency measures to protect, conserve and preserve mangrove forests in Barangay Bito-on in Jaro district amid incursions of developers and land speculators.

The resolution, authored by Councilor Romel Duron, was passed after the city councilor delivered a privilege speech highlighting what he claimed was a pressing issue affecting mangrove forests during their regular session on Wednesday afternoon.

He disclosed that his committee investigation last week revealed "anomalous homestead patents" issued in Barangays Bito-on, Hinactacan and Balabago.

He said the control numbers of the...