The Manila City government is set to ban swimming in Manila Bay to protect people from increased pollution in the bay.

Health Secretary Francisco Duque recommended the ban. He said garbage and toxic chemicals in the bay could cause skin infections and other illnesses to swimmers.

Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim said he will order the installation of signages near the bay area to prevent people from swimming there. He said he will also order officials to open swimming pools in sports complexes in Manila to entice people to swim there.