The Official Newsletter of the Pasig River Rehabilitation ... · “Gusto ko matuto ng mga bagay na hindi ko pa alam gaya ng tamang pagtatapon ng basura”, said one of the participating

The Official Newsletter of the Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission

January - March 2015 | Volume 3 | Issue 1

Contents

What‘s inHere

Cover Photo:

The cover photo shows the rehabilitated Estero de Uli-Uli with its Linear Park concrete pavements, green landscapes and a bridge that connects the Barangays 639 and 640. (JMFacunla, PRRC) Photo by Jelson Reginio, PRRC

Editorial AdvisorRegina Paz L. Lopez

Managing EditorRonald A. Naguit, MNSA

Senior EditorRamil R. TanHelen Arlene P.Quililan

Editor-in-ChiefAmelita V. Gamay

Associate Editor-in-ChiefJericho Von I. MirandaJeffrey M. Facunla Associate and Layout EditorTherese S. Tanquintic

Head Writer

Jeffrey M. Facunla

Contributors

Czeriza Valencia, Philippine StarJonathan M. Hicap, Manila BulletinAnna Liza Vilas-Alavaren, Manila BulletinDepartment of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)Maynilad Water Services, Inc.Arch. Melchor P. OderonAmelita V. GamayEngr. Reynaldo Ramos

EDITORIALBOARD

14 PH’ssmallestlakerevivedforeco-tourismInMuntinlupa17 UNcommendsPHforClimateChangeeffort18 MMDAbeginsclean-upforrainydays

18 Eco-friendlylaundryfacilitylaunchedinLeyte18 Maynilad,ManilaWaterplantmangrovestoprotectwatersupply

19 Awalkthroughtoremember20 RehabilitationofEsterodeUli-Uli;Ashowcaseofcollaborativeefforts21 RamilTanandhisthoughtsonPRRC’soperations23 MALUNGGAY,AMiracleVegetable25 Frommucktopark:RevivalofQCcreeksshowsfirstresults26 BrazilscientistsfeargoldenmusselthreattoAmazonRiver26 AGlimpseofthePasigRiverToday27 ERHR on easement and estate management28 PRRCOperationsDirectoron‘VolunteerismandEnvironmentalAwareness’at UE-ManilaNSTP15thConvocation

2 PRRCshares“BasuraKid’s”storyatGalingBulilitIV3 DPWH,KBPIP,PRRCandtheCityofManilaunveilEsterodeUli-UliLinearPark5 LinearparkopensalongPasigRivertributary7 PRRCreinforcesitsmediacampaignatPTV4’sRadyoBisyonTalakayan8 PRRC and UE-Manila ink MOA9 PRRCcites‘HuwarangAlagadngIlogPasig’Awardtonotableindividuals duringthekick-offofWorldWaterDay201510 PRRCsupports‘runforwaterandsustainabledevelopment’11 ArielMaralitis“HuwarangAlagadngIlogPasig”12 PRRC,KBPIPtourUSDepartmentofTreasuryandADBatEsterodePaco13 PRRCbacksNYC’s‘InHerShoes’powerwalk15 EsterodeBinondoundergoingrehabilitation16 Thesearchisonfor2015MuntingMutyangEsterodePaco

PRRC Events and Projects

Features

Private Sector Partners

Public Sector Partners

Photo Release29-30 PRRCinAction

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PRRC Information Officers Jericho Von Miranda and Angelita Galano explained to kids the proper way of segregating and disposing garbage. Photo by Ambrosio Binwag, PRRC

The Galing Bulilit IV participants ages six to twelve years old from barangay Plainview, Mandaluyong City. Photo by Ambrosio Binwag, PRRC

10-year old Kristine Dianne Lascano (left): “Gusto ko matuto ng mga bagay na hindi ko pa alam gaya ng tamang pagtatapon ng basura”. Photo by Ambrosio Binwag, PRRC

The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission (PRRC) shared Basura Kid’s story at Galing Bulilit

IV on March 21, 2015, at The Atrium, Executive Building of Mandaluyong City Hall.

With focus on solid waste management for kids ages six to twelve years old, Galing Bulilit IV is the brainchild of Kagawad Natasia Ysobel Bernardo of Barangay Plainview, Mandaluyong City.

Kagawad Bernardo said series IV of Galing Bulilit, which tackled Ecological Solid Waste Management is very significant for kids in barangay Plainview, Mandaluyong because their place is prone to flooding.

According to her, the program aims to equip them with the basic knowledge “para matutong mapangalagaan ang

kapaligiran” in their own simple ways “na hindi magtapon ng basura sa kalsada or estero”.

For her part, Mandaluyong City Councilor Charisse Abalos enthusiastically shared her advocacy on trash segregation. “Sa tao mismo dapat magumpisa ang lahat. Dapat pulutin at itapon ang kalat sa tamang basurahan”, she said.

PRRC’s Information Officer Angelita Galano facilitated the story telling about Basura Kid and emphasized the importance of waste segregation and proper waste disposal. Story Telling for Kids is one of PRRC’s Information, Education and Communication (IEC) campaign programs to promote the Commission’s goals to have a cleaner and greener environment particularly on taking care of the Pasig River and its

tributaries.

“Gusto ko matuto ng mga bagay na hindi ko pa alam gaya ng tamang pagtatapon ng basura”, said one of the participating kids, 10-year old Kristine Dianne Lascano, a Grade IV pupil of Julo Elementary School.

“Huwag magtapon ng mga basura sa ilog. Dapat matuto tayong magsegregate ng basura”, Kristine said on what she learned about Basura Kid.

Galing Bulilit IV, a tie up with PRRC, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and Mandaluyong City Environmental Management Department is fourth of a series, which has already tackled topics on proper hygiene, disaster preparedness, and basic nutrition. (JMFacunla, PRRC)

PRRC shares “Basura Kid’s” story at Galing Bulilit IV

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Mandaluyong City Councilor Charisse Abalos (8th from left) and Barangay Kagawad of Plainview, Mandaluyong City Natasia Ysobel Bernardo (7th from left), together with PRRC Information Officers Jericho Von Miranda (3rd from left); Angelita Galano (9th from left); and Jeffrey Facunla (2nd from left). Also in photo are Bruce Binwag of PRRC (1st from left) and representatives from the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and Mandaluyong City Environmental Management Department (EMD). Photo by Ambrosio Binwag, PRRC


Inspired by the unprecedented successes of reviving and revitalizing the esteros of the metropolis, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the Kapit Bisig Para

sa Ilog Pasig (KBPIP) and the City of Manila joined the Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission (PRRC) in unveiling another Linear Park in the heart of Manila on February 20, 2015. This

time the centerpiece is Estero de Uli-Uli Linear Park located at JP. Laurel St., Brgy. 639 and 640, Malacañang Compound, San Miguel, Manila.

MMDA Chairman Atty. Francis Tolentino, PRRC Chair Regina Paz Lopez, DPWH Engr. Patrick Gatan Director and representatives of the City Council of Manila headed by Councilor Joel Par led the ribbon cutting and the unveiling of the rehabilitated Estero de Uli-Uli marker.

With the DPWH’s funding of Php 21,090,977.43 for the construction of linear park and dredging works, the 552-meter stretch of Estero de Uli-Uli has undergone more than a major facelift. For its part, KBPIP, the river-rehabilitation project of ABS-CBN Foundation, Inc., which aims to rehabilitate Metro Manila’s waterways by focusing on the esteros (creek) funded Php 307,384.12 for the restoration of walls affected by the project.

A total of 34 and 59 Informal Settler Families (ISF) living along the estero of barangays 639 and 640, respectively were relocated to Brgy. Gaya-gaya, San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan. Far from its decaying and dying condition, the Estero de Uli-Uli has been revived and now, breathes a new life with its green landscapes, cemented pavements, a reinforced bridge, and rubbish-free waterway. The rehabilitated Estero de Uli-Uli is a reaffirmation of PRRC’s strategy to address the pollution sources of the Pasig River by cleaning the tributaries. (JMFacunla, PRRC)

Manila City Councilor (6th District) Joel Par, DPWH Dir. Engr. Patrick Gatan, Barangay 640 Chairman Lino Lim, Manila City Councilors (6TH District) Leilani Lacuna and Elizabeth Rivera, PRRC Chair Regina Paz Lopez, MMDA Chair Atty. Francis Tolentino and Barangay 639 Chairman Ronald Taray joined hands to symbolize unity and cooperation during the inauguration of Estero De Uli-Uli. Photo by Toni Go, PRRC

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DPWH, KBPIP, PRRC and the City of Manilaunveil Estero de Uli-Uli Linear Park


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PRRC chairperson Regina Paz Lopez, together with Dir. Patrick Gatan of the DPWH (first from left), MMDA Chairman Atty. Francis Tolentino and Father Lino Nicasio, SVD of St. Jude Parish while walking thru the Estero de Uli-Uli. Photo by Toni Go, PRRC

Before

After

PRRC Chairperson Regina Paz Lopez and DPWH Dir. Engr. Patrick Gatan (2nd from left), together with the Councilors of the 6th District of Manila Joel Par (first from left), Leilani Marie H. Lacuna (fourth from left), Elizabeth Z. Rivera and Barangay 640 Chairman Lino Lim (third from left), unveiled the marker of the renovated Estero de Uli-Uli. Photo by Toni Go, PRRC


MANILA, Philippines - The newly constructed Pasong Tamo Linear Park opened to the public on January 22, 2015 the first of several park development and bank

improvements to be made over the next years in three tributaries of the Pasig River in Quezon City.

The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission (PRRC), in partnership with the local government of Quezon City, inaugurated the 380-meter linear park built along the 2.4-kilometer Pasong Tamo Creek.

The paved linear park is adorned with landscaped indigenous flowers and plants and fitted with park benches. At night, the strip garden is lit by solar-powered lampposts.

Jericho Von Miranda, Communications Head of the PRRC said the next two phases of development of the Pasong Tamo Creek Linear Park would be carried out in the next few years.

“This will lead other projects in Pasig River tributaries here in Quezon City,” he said.

Other than the Pasong Tamo Creek, two other tributaries of the Pasig River in Quezon City would be cleaned and developed. Similar linear parks, he said, would be constructed along Culiat and San Francisco Rivers.

Dredging and desilting activities are now underway in the San Francisco River near Araneta Avenue.

Linear park opens along Pasig River tributary

Before

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Quezon City Mayor Herbert Bautista (center) leads the ribbon-cutting ceremony during the inauguration on Jan. 22 of the Pasong Tamo Linear Park in Barangay Bahay Toro. He is joined by Vice Mayor Joy Belmonte (leftmost) and Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission Chair Regina Paz Lopez (second from left). Photo by Ambrosio Binwag, PRRC

Quezon City Mayor Herbert Bautista (fifth from left) and PRRC Chair Regina Paz Lopez (third from left) posed for unity and cooperation for a greener and cleaner Pasong Tamo creek. Joining them are (L-R) PRRC Deputy Executive Director for Operations Ramil Tan; Quezon City Vice Mayor Joy Belmonte; and representatives of Barangay Bahay Toro led by Chairman Dennis A. Caboboy. Photo by Ambrosio Binwag, PRRC

The PRRC is an attached agency of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) mandated to transform Pasig River and its environs into clean and livable communities.

The PRRC develops waterways in three stages: dredging and desilting to gradually restoring the water quality in the Pasig River and its tributaries into class-C level, the effluent standard for maintaining aquatic life and recreational use such as boating.The agency next conducts bank improvement to strengthen creek and river banks and prevent erosion and flooding and, lastly, linear park development to turn these tributaries into leisure areas.

“But now we are focusing not only on the environs of the Pasig River but on its tributaries as well,” said Miranda.

PRRC partnered in 2009 with Kapit Bisig Para sa Ilog Pasig, the river rehabilitation project of ABS-CBN Foundation to take on the rehabilitation of several Pasig River tributaries.

Under this partnership, the rehabilitation of several metro waterways has been undertaken. These include the Estero de Paco, Estero de San Miguel, Estero de Aviles, Estero de Uli-Uli, Estero de Quiapo and Estero de San Sebastian.

The PRRC has a budget of P48.56 million for the development of the Pasong Tamo Creek Linear Park. Out of this allocation, only P9.53 million has been used.

During the inauguration, Quezon City Mayor Herbert Bautista expressed continuous support for the development of Pasig River tributaries in the city. (Czeriza Valencia, The Philippine Star)

After

Solar Lamp Post

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True to its commitment to rehabilitate the Pasig River and its tributaries, the Pasig River

Rehabilitation Commission (PRRC), reinforces its media campaign at the PTV4’s RadyoBisyon Talakayan segment ‘Kalalagayan at Katatayuan ng Pasig River’ on March 4, 2015.

Hosted by Francis Cansino and Vivienne Gulla, PRRC’s Information Officer Jericho Von Miranda answered questions about PRRC’s programs and projects.

“Ang Pasig River ay maayos na lugar na. Mayroon na itong Ferry System. May mga lugar ng may atraksiyon gaya ng mga fishing competitions”, enthused Miranda when asked about the present condition of the Pasig River.

According to Miranda, PRRC has sixteen (16) on-going projects and thus far, the commission has already rehabilitated five

(5) esteros in Manila and in Quezon City. He also shared PRRC’s thrust on cleaning the esteros to address pollution at source. He said cleaning the esteros is also vital to address perennial flooding especially in low-lying areas.

Relevant to clearing the esteros from obstructions, Miranda also discussed concerns on relocating informal settler families along the esteros to safer homes. He said relocation sites must be sustainable with at least the basic services to prevent relocated families from coming back to the esteros.

Miranda also tackled the commission’s initiative to restore the river’s water quality to Class C level, which is suitable for recreation like boating and fishing. Next, he also informed the viewers and listeners about PRRC’s dredging and desilting projects to maintain the Pasig River’s navigable condition, which is

pivotal to the operation of the Pasig River Ferry System.

The segment also touched on laws relevant to PRRC’s mandate. Miranda averred that the country has enough laws and that what is important is implementation and enforcement of these laws.

And, as to the responsiveness of industries to the call for the preservation of the Pasig River and its tributaries, Miranda said the participation of water concessionaires is crucial to ensure that used water are treated before disposing to the Pasig River. All these efforts will bring us closer to re-alizing the goals of PRRC, it just a mat-ter of changing the mindset of the public that it can be done for as long as everyone does his or her share towards transform-ing the Pasig River and its environs into a showcase of a new quality of urban life, Miranda concluded. (JMFacunla, PRRC)

PRRC reinforces its media campaign at PTV4’s RadyoBisyon Talakayan

PRRC Information Officer Jericho Von Miranda (left) with hosts Francis Cansino (right) and Vivienne Gulla (center) during the interview at the PTV4’s RadyoBisyon Talakayan segment ‘Kalalagayan at Katatayuan ng Pasig River’ on March 4, 2015. Photo by Jeffrey Facunla, PRRC

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The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission (PRRC) signed a Memorandum of Agreement

(MOA) with the University of the East (UE)-Manila.

PRRC Chair Regina Paz Lopez and UE-Manila President and Chief Academic Officer Dr. Ester Albano-Garcia represented both organizations in signing the MOA on January 24, 2015.

PRRC and UE-Manila both believe that the purpose, objectives and significance of the Program to be undertaken under the agreement can contribute to the sustainable rehabilitation of rivers and other natural waterways as well as the assessment of the social conditions of the residents.

Under the MOA, PRRC shall provide not only technical assistance but also Php 379,000.00 financial assistance to the program, which will last for six months. UE-Manila for its part shall conduct a research.

Under the detailed research project proposal annexed to the MOA, UE-Manila will conduct a study at the Estero de Quiapo and Estero de San Sebastian, located at the City of Manila. The different barangays covered by the Estero de Quiapo and Estero de San Sebastian are the following: Barangay 383; Barangay 384; Barangay 385; Barangay 387; Barangay 393, and Barangay 394.

Dr. Rogelio Espiritu of the Office of Extension and Community Outreach (OECO), UE-Manila has been designated Program Leader to conduct a study on ‘The Social Conditions of the Residents Along Estero de Quiapo and Estero de San Sebastian: Basis for Formulation of Pasig River and its Tributaries Rehabilitation Program’.

The proposal stated that the study endeavors to seek the level of effect of those untreated waterways to the life and to the social condition of the legitimate residents of the different barangays along the two esteros.

The propose study rationalized that the findings are intended to provide justification, support and bases for formulation of necessary policies in the continuous rehabilitation of the Pasig River.

“The higher the level of the negative impacts of the poor condition of the environment to the residents, the stronger the reasons for the immediate rehabilitation of the esteros and the behoving call for saving the dying Pasig River”, the proposal stated.

The proposal further stated thus, “Consequently, the low level of the social conditions of the people in terms of economy, environment, health, peace and order, and happiness which is affected by the low level of condition of the environment in terms of its cleanliness and accessibility to live comfortably would also serve as significant factors in formulating policies for the rehabilitation of the Pasig River. All these on the backdrop, the study is an utmost imperative as it is expected to yield relevant results that would uplift the awareness of the people on their environmental and social conditions.” (JMFacunla, PRRC)

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The higher the level of the negative impacts of the poor

condition of the environment to the residents, the stronger the reasons for the immediate rehabilitation of the esteros and the behoving call for saving the dying Pasig River

“

“

8

PRRC and UE-Manila ink MOA Freshwater Classificationand Usage

DENR Administrative Order 34

Class AA

Public Water Supply Class I.This class is intended primarily for water having watersheds which are uninhabited and otherwise protected and which require only approved disinfection in order to meet the national Standards for Drinking Water (NSDW) of the Philippines

Class A

Public Water Supply Class II.For sources water supply that will require complete treatment (coagulation, sedimentation, filtration and disinfection) in order to meet the NSDW.

Class B

Recreational Water Class I.For primary contact recreatioin such as bathing, swimming, skin diving, etc. (Particularly those designated for tourism purposes).

Class D

Industrial Water Supply Class II for cooling purposes; water is also suitable for agriculture, irregation, livestock watering, etc. Other inland waters, by their quality, belong to this classification as well.

Class C

Fishery Water for the propagation of fish and other aquatic resources;Recreational Water Class II for secondary contact recreation like boating; andIndustrial Water Supply Class I for manufacturing processes after treatment.

PRRC’s GOAL


March 16 marked the kick-off of World Water Day (WWD) 2015 as the Department of

Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and Maynilad co-presented the ‘World Water Day 2015: Water and Sustainable Development Awards’ at the UP Bahay ng Alumni in Quezon City.

With the subtheme ‘Championing Your Cause by Recognizing Your Champions’, the award aims to recognize top performing individuals, organizations and influencers for various efforts that help address water issues and/or promote sustainable development in the Philippines.

For its part, the Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission (PRRC) with the mandate to rehabilitate the Pasig River and its tributaries, cited three distinguished individuals as ‘Huwarang Alagad ng Ilog Pasig’. PRRC honoured Tadeo M. Palma, Quezon City Secretary to the Mayor; Engr. Ignacio R. Almira, Jr. Chief, Land Surveys Division, DENR-National Capital Region; and Ariel Maralit, Head, Easement Recovery, Housing and Resettlement (ERHR) Division, PRRC.

The Commission recognized Palma’s role in the effective resettlement of informal settler families (ISFs) living along the waterways to decent and socialized in-city and off-city relocation sites and the recovery of the legal easement from both private and informal settlements which paved the way for the development of the Pasong Tamo Creek Linear Park at Barangay Bahay Toro, Quezon City and the commencement of the development of the linear park and revetment walls along San Francisco River at Barangays Talayan and Mariblo.

Engr. Almira was honoured for his efforts as “chief surveyor” for PRRC’s easement recovery program. His office’s establishment of the legal easement along the waterways prompted private property owners to correct the mistakes made in building structures which had encroached the waterway easement which in turn made easement recovery less complicated.

PRRC awarded Maralit for effectively accelerating the relocation of over three thousand ISFs in just two years and in reclaiming easements from over a hundred privately-owned properties

without expropriation funds, which the Commission considered milestones for a coordinating agency with limited capacities such as the PRRC.

The contributions of PRRC’s awardees helped the Commission fast track easement recovery program as well as the development of these recovered easements to linear parks, greenbelts and walkways along Estero de San Miguel; Estero de Uli-Uli; Estero de Valencia; Estero de Sampaloc; Pasong Tamo Creek, and many more creeks and rivers in Metropolitan Manila. (JMFacunla, PRRC)

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PRRC cites ‘Huwarang Alagad ng Ilog Pasig’ Award to notable individuals during the kick-off of

World Water Day 2015

Three distinguished individuals who bagged PRRC’s ‘Huwarang Alagad ng Ilog Pasig’ Award. (L-R): Tadeo Palma, Quezon City Secretary to the Mayor represented by Ed Galino (left) Head, Quezon City Community Development Program; Engr. Ignacio R. Almira, Jr. Chief, Land Surveys Division, DENR-NCR and Ariel Maralit, Head of Easement Recovery, Housing and Resettlement, PRRC. Photos by Jelson Reginio, PRRC


PRRC supports ‘run for water and sustainable development’Believing the significance of World Water Day (WWD),

the Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission (PRRC) supported the World Water Day Philippines 2015 by

joining the fun run organized by Maynilad.

With the theme, ‘Let’s run for water and sustainable development,’ one hundred fifty (150) participants from

PRRC showed their support to the event held last March 22, 2015.

The fun run coincided with the celebration of World Water Day held in March every year.

Throng of participants troop to the CCP

Complex, Pasay City to finish the 21k stretch of Roxas boulevard while some settled for the minimum 1-kilometer and 3-kilometer distance.

According to UN Water—the inter-agency coordination mechanism for freshwater and sanitation—WWD is a day to celebrate water; a day to make a difference for the members of the global community who suffer from water related issues; and, a day to prepare for how we manage water in the future.

This year’s WWD theme, ‘Water and Sustainable Development’, is about how water links to all areas we need to consider to create the future we want. (JMFacunla, PRRC)

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PRRC Information Officer Angelita Galano (left) Lira Canals and Planning Divisin Head Engr.Reynaldo Ramos had a treat of sumba after running the 3km stretch of the CCP Complex.

PRRC Personnel were among the thousands who participated in the fun run.

Photos by Jelson Reginio, PRRC


I did not expect to be cited as ‘Huwarang Alagad ng Ilog Pasig”, enthused Ariel Maralit when asked about his

thoughts about the accolade the Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission (PRRC) conferred upon him at the recently concluded World Water Day 2015 Water and Sustainable Development Awards: Championing Your Cause by Recognizing Your Champions on March 16, 2015 at the UP Bahay ng Alumni, Quezon City.

According to him, it is very difficult to pinpoint who would best personify the ideals of the award. “There are many individuals and sectors who are working to rehabilitate the Pasig River”, Maralit explained.

Maralit said it’s humbling to be considered an honouree more so, it’s the first time that the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and Maynilad have recognized top performing individuals, organizations and influencers for various efforts that help address water issues and/or promote sustainable development in the Philippines.

Maralit and co-awardees Tadeo M. Palma, Quezon City Secretary to the Mayor and Engr. Ignacio R. Almira, Jr. Chief, Land

Surveys Division, DENR-National Capital Region received the award during the ceremonial rites.

Maralit noted the award should be shared by the entire PRRC as a Commission with the mandate to rehabilitate the Pasig River and its tributaries. According to him, this is the fruit of PRRC’s hard work and the collaborative efforts with the Local Interagency Committee (LIAC) “para maisulong ang adhikain ng Komisyon. Isa lang ako sa mga naging kasangkapan para maabot ito.”

“We should not focus on the awardee but rather on what the awardee represents. Perhaps, I represent the majority of those who wish to have a better Pasig River”, he added.

When asked about the factors that may have been considered for his receiving the award, Maralit remarked there is nothing unique about the Easement Recovery, Housing and Resettlement (ERHR), the division he heads. “Hindi kailangang maging matalino or henyo para magawa and aming trabaho sa ERHR division. It’s about our dedication and our intensified efforts to fulfill our tasks”, he added.

Maralit was instrumental in facilitating the relocation of over three thousand ISFs in over two years and in reclaiming easements from private-owned properties without expropriation funds, which the Commission considered milestones for a coordinating agency with limited capacities.

“I thank our PRRC chairperson Gina Lopez for giving me the opportunity to be a contributor to those ideals that are geared towards the rehabilitation of the Pasig River and its tributaries”, he said.

Maralit is upbeat in saying about PRRC’s indelible imprint for the Philippines and the world to see: “Kaya nating linisin at pangalagaan ang ating mga ilog at estero”. “If we can do it in Manila, we can also do it in the entire country. It’s about shaping a better future for the Philippines, environmentally and economically”, he added.

Maralit also spoke about a legacy where he said, “binabago natin ang ating pananaw sa ating mga ilog at esteros hoping that the benefits will transcend to future generations”.(JMFacunla, PRRC)

“

Ariel Maralit is “Huwarang Alagad ng Ilog Pasig”

“We should not focus on the awardee but rather on what the awardee represents. Perhaps, I

represent the majority of those who wish to have a better Pasig River”,

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Photo by Jelson Reginio, PRRC

Photo by Jericho Von Miranda, PRRC

Ariel P. MaralitPRRC Easement Recovery, Housing and Resettlement (ERHR) Head


The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission (PRRC), led by its Executive Director Ronald Naguit and the Kapit Bisig Para Sa Ilog Pasig (KBPIP) Project Director Michael Rubio toured key officials of the US Treasury and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) at Estero de Paco on March 2, 2015.

Estero de Paco used to be inhabited by more than a thousand families of illegal settlers and was clogged with tons of garbage from residents of the estero and nearby communities until its full rehabilitation in 2013. It is now the model for all other rehabilitation projects for other creeks connected to the Pasig River.

Present during the tour were Marisa Lago, Assistant Secretary for International Markets and Development, US Department of Treasury; Ben Cushman, U.S. Treasury Attaché for Southeast Asia; Halliday Hart, Advisor to the U.S. Executive Director in ADB; and Javier Coloma Brotons, ADB Urban Development Specialist Water Supply and Sanitation.

The US Department of Treasury and the ADB officials were in the country to see the progress and development of PRRC’s rehabilitation of the Pasig River and its tributaries. They were also here to meet the River Warriors and the communities along the esteros. (JMFacunla, PRRC)

PRRC, KBPIP tourUS Department of Treasury and ADB at Estero de Paco

PRRC Executive Director Ronald Naguit (leftmost) led the walkthrough along Estero de Paco. With him were U.S. Treasury Attaché for Southeast Asia Ben Cushman (2nd from left); Advisor to the U.S. Executive Director in ADB Halliday Hart (3rd from left); Marisa Lago (4th from left), Assistant Secretary for International Markets and Development, US Department of the Treasury; and ADB Urban Development Specialist Water Supply and Sanitation Javier Coloma Brotons (rightmost). Photo by Jericho Von Miranda, PRRC

(L-R) ADB Urban Development Specialist Water Supply and Sanitation Javier Coloma Brotons; Marisa Lago, Assistant Secretary for International Markets and Development, US Department of the Treasury; U.S. Treasury Attaché for Southeast Asia Ben Cushman; Advisor to the U.S. Executive Director in ADB Halliday Hart while checking a portion of Estero de Paco. Photo by Jericho Von Miranda, PRRC

(L-R) U.S. Treasury Attaché for Southeast Asia Ben Cushman (leftmost); ADB Urban Development Specialist Water Supply and Sanitation Javier Coloma Brotons (2nd from left); Advisor to the U.S. Executive Director in ADB Halliday Hart (in black); and Marisa Lago (6th from left), Assistant Secretary for International Markets and Development, US Department of the Treasury together with the PRRC River Warriors. Photo by Jericho Von Miranda, PRRC

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The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission (PRRC) supported ‘In her Shoes: Building New Consciousness on Filipino Women (in) Power Walk last 06 March 2015.

This was in response to National Youth Commission’s (NYC) call on all male government employees and youth volunteers to be in heels for a nationwide rally in celebration of the Filipino Women’s Power.

Starting at nine in the morning, NYC chair Gio Tingson and Commissioner Dingdong Dantes wore high heels and led the power walk alon Quezon Avenue from Banawe, Quezon Ave to Welcome Rotonda, Quezon City.

The power walk was about celebrating the Filipino Women’s power. NYC believes on women’s capacity as creators of

knowledge in science, technology, culture and the arts and, as wielders of power to engage, contribute, and make decisions in governance and nation-building.

The male employees who joined the power walk were from the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), Philippine Navy, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), ILS-DOLE, Philippine Air Force (PAF), Philippine Maritime Academy, and Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP).

With the goal to rebuild public consciousness to openly embrace women’s power, the activity was held simultaneously in NCR, Baguio, Cebu, and Davao City. (JMFacunla, PRRC)

PRRC backs NYC’s ‘In Her Shoes’ power walk

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March 6, 2015—IN HER SHOES: All but heels for these gentlemen of the Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission (PRRC) during the ‘In her Shoes: Building New Consciousness on Filipino Women (in) Power Walk’ along Quezon Ave. An initiative by the National Youth Commission (NYC), the power walk was in conjunction with the celebration of the Women’s Month. Upperleft photo shows PRRC’s Paulo Capuli (leftmost); Arturo Baquizal (center); and Erickson Sayson (rightmost) of PRRC. Left photo shows NYC chair Gio Tingson (in dark blue shirt) and Commissioner Dingdong Dantes (in red shirt) wearing lady’s high heels as they led the power walk.

Photos by Jeffrey Facunla, PRRC


The Philippines’ smallest lake is undergoing rehabilitation to showcase its marine life and become the next tourist destination in southern Metro Manila.

Jamboree Lake, located in the New Bilibid Prison reservation in Barangay Poblacion, Muntinlupa City, is now home to 30,000 tilapia and 10,000 ayungin fingerlings after Mayor Jaime Fresnedi led lake seeding efforts last week.

The city’s Lake Management Office previously conducted a water quality test in the lake and placed a set of koi fish, among other marine species.

The City Architect’s Office and Engineering Department is taking care of landscaping to beautify the lake’s surrounding areas.

Assistant Laguna Lake Development Authority General Manager Maristel Espiritu and Bureau of Corrections officer-in-charge Supt. Richard Schwarzkopf lauded the city government’s program in bringing the lake back to life.

Muntinlupa Rep. Rodolfo Biazon assured the mayor of his continued support in developing and protecting one of Muntinlupa’s prized gems. (Jonathan M. Hicap, Manila Bulletin February 12, 2015)

PH’s smallest lake revived for eco-tourism In Muntinlupa

Ilog Natin 14

LAKE SEEDING - Muntinlupa City Mayor Jaime Fresnedi (extreme right) joins (from left) Councilor Louisito Arciaga, Assistant Laguna Lake Development Authority General Manager Maristel Espiritu, Bureau of Corrections Officer-in-Charge Supt. Richard Schwarzkopf, Lake Management Office Chief Ting Niefes, and Representative Rodolfo Biazon in placing 30,000 tilapia and 10,000 ayungin fingerlings in Jamboree Lake, New Bilibid Prison Reservation. The local government is reviving the Philippines’ smallest lake, turning it into the next tourism destination in southern Metro Manila.


T he Binondo creek…plays, as do all rivers in Manila, the multiple roles of bathing place, drainage and sewerage, laundering area, fishing ground, means of transport and

communication, and even source of potable water”. That’s how Philippine national hero Dr. Jose Rizal described Estero de Binondo in his book Noli Me Tangere.

Estero de Binondo, one of six major tributaries of Pasig River, is undergoing development with the Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission (PRRC) at the forefront as it fulfills the core of its mandate—that is to rehabilitate the Pasig River and its tributaries. PRRC’s Project Development Officer Faheem Uddin Agha said PRRC started the development of Estero de Binondo on January 12, 2015 and thus far, fifteen percent has been completed and expected to be fully accomplished within 150 calendar days or on June 12, 2015—the target date for the inauguration of Estero de Binondo.

According to Agha, PRRC will once again replicate its successes in rehabilitating esteros back to life with this nine hundred forty (940) linear meter stretch of Estero de Binondo.

With Php 9.76 million budget, the Estero de Binondo’s 3-meter easement on both sides (300 meters on the right bank and 640

meter on the left bank) will be transformed into Linear Park with concrete walkways, green landscape, solar lamps and metal fence.

While there are no Informal Settler Families (ISF) affected, there are high rise buildings, apartment, business establishment such as warehouses in the area which supported the project and complied accordingly with the 3-meter legal easement.

Agha also said PRRC is aggressive in completing other projects that are already in the pipeline including Estero de Valencia-Package 2 and Estero de Sampaloc-Package 2.

Estero de Valencia-Package 2, which is already in the bidding process, is expected to be finished in June this year while Estero de Sampaloc-Package 2, which is now in the design process, is expected to be completed in October also, this year.

Agha said PRRC is optimistic that all the projects being undertaken will meet the timetables especially with the active involvement of national agencies such as the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), and the Local Government Unit of the City of Manila. (JMFacunla, PRRC)

Development of Estero de Valencia-Package 2, Estero de Sampaloc-Package 2 started

Estero de Binondo undergoing rehabilitation

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Existing Proposed Design

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Ang pagsasapraktika ng pagbubukod bukod ng basura at pagpapanatili ng kalinisan at kaayusan ng komunidad ang pangunahing layunin ng patimpalak”, said Kapit

Bisig Para sa Ilog Pasig (KBPIP), as they announced their project aptly dubbed, ‘The Search for 2015 Munting Mutya ng Estero de Paco’.

“Ang layunin ng patimpalak ay upang tumaas ang kamalayan at lumahok ang komunidad sa wastong pamamahala ng basura mula sa kanilang kabahayan at paglahok ng komunidad sa mga proyekto para sa mas mabilis na paglinis ng Estero de Paco”, KBPIP added.

KBPIP strongly believes that Barangay officials play an important role in the realization of the aims of the search. “Ang mga opisyal ng Barangay ang isa sa maaaring humikayat sa komunidad na suportahan ang kandidata sa pamamagitan ng pagbubukod ng mga nareresiklong gamit o bagay na kadalasan ay napupunta sa basurahan.”

“Ang mga nareresiklong gamit o bagay ang isa sa mga pamantayan

sa pagpili sa magwawagi”, said KBPIP.

The target participants are the fourteen (14) barangays along Estero de Paco where each barangay can field 1-2 candidates ages 4-10 years old and legitimate residents of the barangay. Far from the traditional beauty pageants, 50% of the candidates’ points will come from the amount of recyclables that they are able to collect instead of the usual collection of cash as votes for the candidates.Munting Mutya candidates will have two months to collect a sufficient amount of recyclables from April 01-May 24, 2015. The chosen finalists will be given another 2 weeks to collect and submit more recyclables. Participating barangays should conduct clean up activity in their respective barangay.

Winners will be crowned on June 21, 2015 with titles ‘Munting Mutya ng Estero de Paco’; ‘Munting Mutya ng Malinis na Hangin’; and ‘Munting Mutya ng Malinis na Paligid’. Aside from being featured in ABS-CBN’s Mutya ng Masa, they will also receive trophies and scholarship from Systems Technology Institute (STI). (JMFacunla, PRRC)

As part of the World Water Day 2015 celebration, the Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission (PRRC) and other government partner agencies joined the Pandin Lake

Tour in San Pablo, Laguna last 17 March 2015.

Spearheaded by the Public Information Unit of the Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA), the tour was organized to highlight the unique role of women in lake management as well as to solicit support from various agencies and organizations to make the implementation of the Pandin Lake Development and Management Plan (PLDMP) a successful endeavour.

PLDMP was formulated in 2014 in recognition of the need to mobilize all the stakeholders for a sustained and concerted effort at conserving, protecting and restoring the lake’s vital resources.

Pandin Lake is being characterized as one of the most pristine water body among the seven crater lakes in the city of San Pablo. The lake has no inlet while its outlet drains water to the Laguna de

The search is on for 2015 Munting Mutya ng Estero de Paco

PRRC joins Pandin Lake Tour

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(L-R): PRRC Planning Head, Engr. Reynaldo P. Ramos; Deputy Executive Director for Operations Ramil R. Tan; Ms. Airene Margarette B. Lozada of Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), and Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA) General Manager, Secretary Nereus Acosta.

Pandin Lake’s bucolic setting adorned by its unspoiled water and verdant landscape is a constant attraction for nature lovers. Photo by Engr. Reynaldo P. Ramos, PRRC

Bay through Prinsa River. It has total area of 24.15ha and a total perimeter of 1.91km. The average depth of the lake is 33.39m, with a maxim depth of 62.8m. (Engr. Reynaldo P. Ramos, PRRC)

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In a bilateral meeting held Friday, February 27, 2015 at the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in Quezon City, Environment Secretary Ramon J. P. Paje discussed with UN Environment Program (UNEP) Executive Director Achim Steiner the various programs being implemented by the agency to increase the country’s natural defenses and resiliency.

Steiner applauded the leadership of the Philippines within the climate change convention and the innovation it has demonstrated at the national level.

“Ahead of the Call to Action, we are already doing our share to address climate change. The directive of President Aquino is to improve our natural defenses and to significantly increase the resiliency of communities,” Paje said.

He cited the National Greening Program, log ban in natural forests, geohazard assessment and mapping program and clean air as among the priority programs being implemented by the DENR to mitigate the impact of climate change.

Steiner, accompanied by UNEP Regional Director and Representative for Asia and the Pacific Kaveh Zahedi, met with DENR officials to discuss potential cooperation on renewable energy and climate change.

According to Paje, the UN official also expressed hope the Philippines will be

among the first 50 countries to ratify the Minamata Convention and give it the legal identity it needs in order to become effective.

“The Minamata Convention is a worthy cause and it calls for leadership, so that it does not linger in the drawers of international conventions” Paje quoted Steiner as saying.

The Minamata Convention was signed by Paje, who was given full powers by President Aquino to sign the treaty on behalf of the Philippines, during a conference organized by the UNEP in Kumamoto City, Japan, on October 10, 2013.

The pact will take effect 90 days after ratification by at least 50 countries.

Paje likewise offered for a potential presence of UNEP in the Philippines as a way to reciprocate the UN agency’s continuing commitment in providing support to various environmental programs and projects.

According to the environment chief, there are currently seven projects being implemented by the DENR funded by UNEP. These projects include invasive species management, monitoring of persistent organic pollutants or POPs, implementation of the strategic action programme for the marine and coastal environment of the South China Sea, ozone depleting substance (ODS) and the HCFC Phaseout Management Plan.

Other areas of cooperation discussed by the two officials were on the following:

• Support to the Philippines to increase investment in renewable energy and energy efficiency, including the development and implementation of green energy policies;

• Work together on the valuation and integrated management of ecosystems, including through the Wealth Accounting and Valuation of Ecosystems Services (WAVES) program as well as work in the marine and coastal ecosystems through the Coral Triangle and other programs;

• Strengthen collaboration between UNEP and the Philippines, including scaling up joint work under the Global Environmental Fund 6 cycle; and

• Strategic partnerships to help support the broader ASEAN region in partnership with the Philippines. (www.denr.gov.ph)

UN COMMENDS PH FOR CLIMATE CHANGE EFFORT

The United Nations has acknowledged the efforts of the Philippine government to address climate change.

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The Minamata Convention is a worthy

cause and it calls for leadership, so that it does

not linger in the drawers of international

conventions,

““


Taking advantage of the dry season, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA)

will start its three in one cleanup operation tomorrow until July 11 to help local officials and the public declog waterways and drainage systems, clean roadways, marketplaces, and other public places in the metropolis.

Simultaneously, at least 400 workers of the MMDA will conduct “Estero Blitz” program which involves the dredging of esteros and creeks; “Linis Palengke” that promotes cleanliness, order, and effective solid waste management in public markets and “Lingap sa Barangay” with MMDA personnel going to different barangays to assist in massive cleanup drives to mitigate flooding.

Flood control, public safety and environmental, roadside and clearing personnel with cleaning materials and heavy machinery, will form part of the team that will be deployed on the agency’s

first target on Tuesday in Tondo, Manila.“We will clear two heavily silted esteros per day, plus we will focus on inner waterways which have not yet been attended,” said Emma Quimbao, director of the MMDA flood control and sewerage management office.

MMDA personnel armed with rakes, cutters, bolos will be deployed at 4 a.m. Backhoes, manlifters, dump trucks will also be brought to the area early so as not to contribute in the morning rush hour traffic.

Defogging and misting operations are also part of the cleanup program to help eliminate mosquito-breeding grounds. There will also be pruning of trees.

A seminar centered on improving the health and sanitation of the public markets will also be conducted. (Anna Liza Vilas-Alavaren, Manila Bulletin February 15, 2015)

MMDA begins clean-up for rainy days

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The barangay of Union Coastal in Mayorga, Leyte, is the first community to benefit from an

environment-friendly laundry facility launched by Surf Philippines.

On Jan. 22, Unilever Philippines, through one of its brands, Surf, turned over to the community its pilot project, the Surf Labahan station. The 200-square meter facility features a water filtration system, a laundry area made of foot pavers made from recycled Surf sachets, and a roof designed to catch rainwater. In addition, the water filtration system’s pump is solar-powered.

The pilot project is part of Unilever’s Sustainable Living Program, the company’s blueprint for sustainable growth launched in 2010. The laundry facility is the company’s way of contributing to water sustainability and conservation efforts.

The Labahan station is a combination of their design and existing water purification technologies. With this technology, the filtration features a two-stage process: the first part filters visible particles such as gravel, sand and soil, while the second stage filters ceramic and chemical particles.

The newly launched facility will be a big help to their community since they will be able to use clean water for their laundry needs. Prior to the launch of the facility, their barangay had been using poso or deep well pumps, which she says do not have a regular supply and produces yellowish water.

With the facility, the community is able to help conserve water by 700 washloads a day. The facility’s tank can hold up to 6,000 liters which is equivalent to nine washloads a day. (JMF—Excerpted from The Daily Tribune’s article written by Kathleen A. Llemit, 26 January 2015)

Eco-friendly laundry facility launched in Leyte

Maynilad Water Services Inc. (Maynilad) and Manila Water Co., the private-

water contractor of the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System servicing Metro Manila’s West Zone and East Zone, respectively, continue to implement programs geared toward the protection of the environment.

Since 2013 Maynilad had so far planted 35,000 mangrove propagules in the areas around the Cancao-Bacoor Bays, which forms part of Manila Bay under its “Plant for Life” multisite reforestation and afforestation program.

The program aims to arrest the environmental degradation threatening the reliability and quality of water supply in Luzon.

Maynilad has been tapping volunteers from public and private organizations, and local communities for the rehabilitation of mangrove areas in the cities of Bacoor and Cavite, and the municipalities of Kawit, Noveleta and Rosario in the Cavite province.

Ricky Vargas, president and CEO of Maynilad, said, “Mangroves are essential in protecting shorelines and can serve as a barrier for storm surges. Rehabilitating mangrove forests is an important part of our carbon sequestration program because they absorb up to three to five times the amount of carbon into the soil compared to other forest types.”

Aside from reducing carbon in the atmosphere, mangroves are also known to host biodiversity by proving food for fish and sanctuaries for birds and fish. (JMF—Excerpted from www.businessmirror.com.ph)

Maynilad, Manila

Water plant mangroves to protect water

supply


Ilog Natin

PRRC Operations Team had a walkthrough last February 26, 2015. PRRC Deputy Executive

Director Ramil Tan, together with Head of Easement, Recovery, Housing and Resettlement Ariel Maralit, Information Officers Von Miranda and Andy Galano, led the team. This time they were joined by the newbies from the different divisions of PRRC, including this writer.

“Understanding and appreciating the mandate of PRRC is crucial before one could understand his reason for being with PRRC. One practical way to do it is thru the walkthrough. It is a good way to immerse oneself with and to set expectations about PRRC,” enthused Deputy Executive Director for Operation Tan as he briefed the team prior to the walkthrough.

The walkthrough is conducted weekly to visit the Pasig River and its esteros. Its objectives are for PRRC to monitor the status of its ongoing projects and to observe the present conditions of the rehabilitated esteros. From there, PRRC could detect potential problems and address existing ones. Tan explained that the ‘walkthrough’ is a continuing activity to reinforce PRRC’s given mandate to clean and to take care of the Pasig River and its esteros.

The itinerary for the day was to visit the Pasong Tamo Creek, San Francisco River, Estero de Sampaloc, Estero de Valencia,

Estero de Aviles, Estero de Uli-Uli, Estero de San Miguel, Estero de Magdalena, Estero de La Reina, Estero de San Lazaro, and Estero de Binondo.

Off to our destinations, the van served as a mobile meeting room where Tan shared his passion about cleaning the Pasig River and its tributaries. He also shared his high hopes about PRRC’s achieving its missions and goals. Occasional traffic did not bore us as he continued educating us about the people living along the esteros, who must have the right kind of attitude and appreciation of the impact of PRRC’s projects to their lives. Tan also imparted the importance of informing communities about PRRC’s intensive and extensive preparations before and after rehabilitating the esteros.

As we reached each destination, this writer took down notes on the ‘model estero’—Estero de Aviles. Here, River Warriors were doing their routine task

of maintaining the cleanliness and the greening of the linear landscapes. Noteworthy are the residents who have maintained their gardens no matter how small they maybe. The principles of ‘Tapat ko linis ko, hardin ko aalagaan ko’ seem to have ingrained so deeply into the consciousness of residents in Estero de Aviles.

Some esteros like the Estero de Sampaloc however, still require some form of stronger encouragement for the residents to appreciate the benefits of showing deeper concern and commitment to take care of the environment, especially that portion where their families live and the surrounding areas near the estero where their children play. While it may not be a remote possibility, the sense of ownership and responsibility is a concern needing immediate attention.

This writer believes that PRRC programs must strengthen communities’ awareness and participation. The government spent millions to clear the esteros from obstructions and to fortify riverbanks for their safety, to clean the esteros for their health and, in short, for their general wellbeing. They must realize the value and the impact of these initiatives to their lives. The collective responsibility of the leaders and the communities living in the esteros is crucial to the success of cleaning the Pasig River and its esteros.

A ‘walkthrough’ to rememberBy: Jeffrey M. Facunla, PRRC

19

Photos by Jericho Von Miranda, PRRC

Estero de Aviles


Dati binabaha rito. Maraming basura. Ang mga nakatira ay walang paki alam sa pagtatapon ng kanilang mga basura”, that is how Aling Aguida Savellana would recall

the deplorable condition of barangay 639 before the Estero de Uli-Uli was rehabilitated.

At 79, Aling Aguida, who has been living in their barangay for a very long time, is amazed at how Estero de Uli-Uli was transformed to become habitable community. “Ngayon, maganda na at walang mga basura dahil wala ng nagtatapon dito. Naging disiplinado ang mga tao ngayon sa amin”, she adds while pointing to the estero.

Aling Aguida also felt very appreciative of the green landscapes and the newly painted houses along the 3-meter easement of the estero. “Madami mga squatters dito dati”, she averred, referring to 34 and 59 informal settlers families living along the esteros in Barangays 639 and 640, respectively. “Pero narelocate na sila sa barangay Gaya-gaya, San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan. Ngayon, nakakakilos at nakakahinga na kami ng maluwag”, she added. These were her impressions as she eagerly awaited the inauguration of the rehabilitated Estero de Uli-Uli on February 20, 2015.

According to Aling Aguida, she is privileged to have live long enough to witness how her home for 79 years has changed into a community beaming with hope.

Cleared from obstructions, the 552-meter stretch of Estero

de Uli-Uli now boasts a linear park—with all its cemented pavements, plants on concreted pots, and metal-fenced alleys. Thanks to the joint efforts of the Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission (PRRC), the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the Kapit Bisig Para sa Ilog Pasig (KBPIP) and the City Government of Manila.

This partnership is a showcase of what PRRC Chair Regina Paz Lopez described as fruitful collaboration among different government agencies, local government units, people’s organizations, and the communities becoming ONE TEAM, working together.

“Gawing paraiso and estero”, said Chair Lopez as she encouraged the residents of Barangay 639 and 640 to take care of their environment. “The path to wealth is to take care of the environment. Don’t give up hoping”, were the words of Lopez during the inaugural rites at the Estero de Uli-Uli.

For his part, MMDA Chairman Atty. Francis Tolentino said the rehabilitation of Estero de Uli-Uli is a story of success because all the stakeholders did his share in reviving the ailing estero while DPWH Engr. Patrick Gatan said that it is very important to address pollution at source.

Barangays 639 and 640, through their respective barangay chairmen, Lino Lim and Ronald Taray promised to maintain the cleanliness of the Estero de Uli-Uli.

Ilog Natin 20

By: Jeffrey M. Facunla, PRRC

Rehabilitation of Estero de Uli-Uli:A showcase of collaborative efforts

Ngayon, maganda na at walang mga basura dahil wala ng

nagtatapon dito. Naging disiplinado ang mga tao ngayon sa amin

“

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Photo by Jericho Von Miranda, PRRCPhoto by Gloria Niñofranco, PRRC

Aguida Savellana of Barangay 639

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Ilog Natin21

The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission (PRRC) is not just a regular government office, it has

socio economic implications”, enthused Ramil Tan, when this writer asked him about his thoughts on managing PRRC’s operations.

Tan, PRRC’s newly appointed Deputy Executive Director for Operations, brings with him 20 years of extensive experience focusing in organizational operations, business and community relations, business development, consultancies and legal and administration from various corporate entities in the Philippines and abroad.

Starting as a Legal Officer for Philippine Trust Company (PHILTRUST BANK), Tan earned his way up the corporate ladder by sheer hard work and determination. He worked as Property Manager for Solariega; compliance officer for a Singaporean company, Performance Foreign Exchange Corp (PFEC); School administrator of the American Hospitality Academy in the Philippines; Vice President for Administration of the ABP-Bicolnon; Executive Director, Vice

President and Chief Operating Officer of the ATI Group of Companies. Tan practically travelled the world when he joined Horizons International Network (Canada) as Legal Officer to the Middle East with assignments covering Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Toronto, Ontario, Canada and as Legal and HRD Officer of the TFI Group of Companies in San Francisco, California, USA.

Early in his public service career, Tan served as a Municipal Government Department Head of the Municipality of Torrijos, Marinduque. He was also Political Consultant of the Kingmakers Group. He is known in his hometown as one who is passionate about fulfilling his civic duties by organizing cooperatives, which he believes will bring about positive change in his townfolks’ lives. Here, Tan was Managing Director for Samahang Maghahabi ng Bolo, Inc. and Director for Torrijos Loomweavers MPCI, both in Torrijos, Marinduque.

Tan earned his AB Economics and Political Science from St. Joseph’s College, Quezon City as a state scholar. Thereafter, he studied Law in San Sebastian College-

Recoletos, Manila where he was a Dean’s Lister and Chairman of the Student Electoral Board. He has Certificate in Local Legislative Development from the National College of Public Administration (NCPAG), University of the Philippines in Diliman, Quezon City.

His strong desire to work for institutions that provide direct and positive impact to people attracted Tan to further pursue public service and so, he found himself joining PRRC in July of 2014 as Legal Officer/Head Formal Structures-Manila.

Challenges and OpportunitiesTan shared to this writer his view on how to approach the challenges and opportunities facing the Commission’s operations. According to him, the primary consideration is practical management—that is managing on the concept of what is the best and the most practical way to do the right things the right way. He believes that it must be right because the Commission must be compliant with the rules and regulations and it must consider the stakeholders attached to the agency. “It must be right because PRRC must consider the dynamics of government

RAMIL TAN AND HIS THOUGHTS ON PRRC’S OPERATIONS


Gusto ko sa operation masaya ang lahat ng tao.

Masaya ang tao kapag tinapik mo dahil may ginawang

maganda at lalo siyang gagawa ng mas maganda pa

“

“

Photo by Jelson Reginio, PRRCRamil R. TanPRRC Deputy Executive Director for Operations

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agencies interconnected to provide a full operational system for the Commission”, Tan explained.

Mandate to clean up the Pasig RiverElaborating on PRRC’s mandate to clean up the Pasig River, Tan feels that cleaning the Pasig River is no easy task. Cleaning it is not the end all and be all of it. “We have to look at the details not only as to how effective is the relocation of informal settler families but also of the river development and the advocacy programs for the communities,” he said.

More than this, Tan opines that PRRC must also focus on values formation, otherwise the Commission’s endeavours will be futile. “Until such time that we are able to inculcate in the hearts and minds of the community the value of the things that we are doing, the worth of the rivers to their lives and to their communities, our labours will fall into naught,” said Tan.

Clearing of esteros of informal sector“Ang paglusong sa estero ay hindi simpleng bagay”, said Tan when asked about his thoughts on clearing the esteros from informal settler families. According to him, PRRC has perfected the pre relocation aspect but not the post relocation. “Ililipat natin yung mga tao pero sa paglilipatan wala namang kuryente, walang tubig, walang kabuhayan. Babalik at babalik sila sa ilog. So we must understand not just the physical dwelling. Ano ba mayroon sa estero bakit sila bumabalik? Anu naman ang wala sa relocation sites at umaalis sila doon?”, asked Tan.

“Kapag naresolve mo ung mga detalyeng ito, maaring hindi na sila bumalik sa mga estero. Iba yung nagsasabi ka ng pagbabago ng kultura kaysa sa inintindi mo kung ano ang wala and then try to compensate kung ano ang wala. Kung hindi mo man kaya, kaya ng ibang ahensiya dahil ung weakness mo ma-strengthen naman nila”, Tan further explained.

Clearing of esteros of formal structure “May batas na yung easement dapat ay 3 meters kung nasa estero, 10 meters kung nasa navigable river, pero sinasabi din ng batas, ‘no person shall be deprive of life liberty or property without due process of law’. So you cannot just remove formal settlement without due process. Due process means at least just compensation”, Tan clarifies. With the parameters of limitations, you cannot impose deadlines when to demolish. The thrust is not to implement a project without a clear right

of way, explained Tan. “I can only commit that I can clean the right of way kung merong monetary value na pwede kung ibayad assuming na yung tao ay nag-refuse na magpagiba because it is his right. So, if we have set the parameters on the rights of the informal why not with the formal settlers?

Balancing Act It is a matter of striking a balance between the settlers’—formal and informal—rights and the enforcement of laws on the other. Here, Tan explained the need to intensify coordination with the allied agencies in the implementation of dredging works to rehabilitation, to embankment, to development of linear parks and finally, to the institutionalization of the program transfer to get the people’s commitment. “Hence, PRRC’s programs such as ‘Tapat Ko, Linis Ko’ and ‘Hardin Ko, Aalagaan Ko’ are all geared towards making our efforts more appreciable because sustainable,” he stressed.

Parameters of Limitations Tan also tackled matters on how to improve PRRC’s operational capabilities. Here, he identified certain parameters. First, he considered the stem of the mandate of the Commission. Second, the parameter of limitations. Third, the power to coordinate with agencies that have strengths to perform those functions which the Commission lacks. And, lastly, community-based program.

Tan averred that PRRC as a mere coordinating agency can only do so much to clean the river. It has no teeth to implement everything. “But if you were able to consider your parameters of limitations you would be able to also identify your strength and your value to the interagency council attached to the agency that has strengths and from there you are able to create a powerful team”, he added.

Community ParticipationTan stressed that PRRC programs must be community-based-centered in such a way that these programs would generate the much needed participation of communities to be able to achieve a synergized and dynamic cycle of cohesive collaborations of government, the communities, the stakeholders, relevant institutions and personalities concerned. Tan looks at a two-pronged approach to intensify community participation—that is by way of providing a transfer to and acceptance by a particular local government like a barangay. According to

him, the barangays must be apprised not only of the extent of PRRC’s endeavors, the developments that have been undertaken, but most importantly, the impact the project provides to the barangays and the benefits these barangays may derive from the project.

Likewise critical is the aspect of maintaining and sustaining these projects. Another challenge is on how to communicate these successes so that the benefits will trickle down to as many beneficiaries as possible.

Tan on motivation and successOne might wonder how Tan motivates people. Here, he declared: “Gusto ko sa operation masaya ang lahat ng tao. Masaya ang tao kapag tinapik mo dahil may ginawang maganda at lalo siyang gagawa ng mas maganda pa”.

And, what about his formula for success? “Gusto ko ang ginagawa ko hindi dahil napakagaling ko kundi dahil siguro gusto ko at masaya ako sa ginagawa ko at sa tingin ko tama naman ang ginagawa ko. Feeling ko nagagawa ko ng tama dahil masasaya naman ang mga taong nakakasama ko.”

Ilog Natin 22

PRRC inspects one of the illegal structures in Barangay 432 in Estero de Samaloc during the walkthrough. Photo by Jericho Von Miranda, PRRC


Malunggay is usually found in backyards of most Filipino homes. “ Known as miracle

vegetable or nature’s medicine cabinet by scientists and health care workers from around the world, Malunggay is loaded with vitamins and minerals that can be an effective remedy against many kinds of ailments,” according to the House Bill 2072 or Act Declaring Malunggay (Moringa Oleifera) as the National Vegetable of the Philippines and the Month of November of every year as the National Malunggay Month.

Malunggay is a popular plant known for nutritional value as well as a herbal medicine. Malunggay is a plant that grows in the tropical climates such as the Philippines, India and Africa. Malunggay is widely used as vegetable ingredient in cooking, as herbal medicine for a number of illness and other practical uses. The Malunggay plant can grow to as high as 9 meters with erect white trunks. The compound leaf has about 3 to 9 leaflets. Malunggay has white fragrant flowers that produce long pods with 3-angled winged seeds.

Also known as: “Malunggáy” in Philippines, “Sajina” in India, “Shojne” in Bengal, “Munagakaya” in Telugu, “Shenano” in Rajasthani, “Shevaga” in Marathi, “Nuggekai” in Kannada, “Drumstick Tree,Horse Radish Tree, Ben Oil Tree” in English, “La mu” in Chinese.

Malunggay may be propagated by planting its seeds about an inch in the ground or matured Malunggay stem cuttings of about 3 feet in length may also be planted into the ground. Planted Malunggay cuttings grow faster compared to planted seeds.

Malunggay as food. Malunggay pods may be eaten raw or may also be fried with peanut similar taste. Malunggay leaves and flower may also be cooked together with other vegetables and meat to form soups or viands.

The Malunggay pods are the most valued and widely used part of the plant. Malunggay pods contain essential amino acids, vitamins and other nutrients. Malunggay pods may be eaten raw or may be prepared or cooked. Malunggay pods may be fried and may produce clear, odorless and sweet oil mostly called - Ben Oil.

Malunggay leaves may be eaten as greens, in salads and as vegetable ingredients for soups and other tropical viands. Malunggay flowers are cooked and eaten either mixed with other foods or fried in butter.

Malungay as Herbal MedicineMalunggay has been used as herbal medicine in many cultures for hundreds of years. Malunggay is known as a very nutritious plant where it is used to combat

malnutrition in third world countries especially for infants and nursing mothers.

Medical Uses of Malunggay Malunggay is used to combat malnutrition, especially among infants and nursing mothers. It is rich in vitamins A, B and C, calcium, iron and protein.

Anti-infectious / Anti-bacterial / Anti- Fungal. In late 1940’s, the Department of Biochemistry at the Indian Institute of Science in Bangalore (PLN Rao) have found that Malunggay leaves contain a compound “pterygospermin” that is known in medical science as having antimicrobial, antibacterial, anti-fungal properties.

Anti-Cancer. Malunggay has been shown in studies to have an anti-tumor capacity. Malunggay contains benzyl isothiocyanate. There are many studies that have shown this chemical and

MALUNGGAY, A Miracle Vegetable

(Scientific Name: Moringa Oleifera)

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By: Amelita V. Gamay, PRRC


compounds derived thereof to have anti-cancer and chemoprotective capabilities. This chemoprotective aspect is critical for those who are battling cancer. This helps strengthen cells so that they can tolerate chemotherapy. Malunggay is also considered in the treatment of prostate cancer and skin cancer.

Anti-inflammatory. Malunggay has been found to inhibit inflammation in a controlled scientific study conducted by Philippine DOST Scientists (Amelia P. Guevara, Carolyn Vargas and Milagros Uy). When an aqueous seed extract of Malunggay has been administered to a carrageenan induced inflammation, it was noted that the aqueous seed extract of the Malunggay inhibited the development of oedema in rat paw. The Malunggay is traditionally used to prevent and treat inflammations associated with rheumatism, arthritis and joint pains.

Reproductive Health. Malunggay is widely believed to have an aphrodisiac action that enhances the sexual activity. Malunggay young leaves are also widely used to increase the flow of milk for lactating mothers.

Malunggay Herbal Medicine PreparationMalunggay decoction for washing sores and wounds, Boil Malunggay roots and let it cool to tolerable warm temperature and use it to wash wounds and sores. By gargling the Malunggay decoction, it may also be used to wash mouth sores and sore throats.

Malunggay poultice. Grounded Malunggay seeds, leaves and bark may be applied topically as poultice onto swollen flesh to relieve inflammation.

Malunggay oil may be taken internally as mixed with food. It is known to be a powerful antioxidant even used by the

early people from Egypt. Malunggay oil also known as Ben oil is widely used as oil base for perfumes and cosmetics. The oil is extracted from Malunggay seeds by pressing.

Malunggay Herbal Medicine Precautions, Side EffectsAlthough Malunggay consumption is generally accepted as safe, according to Indian traditional usage, Malunggay may have an abortificient effects.

References:Lira Dalangin-Fernandez, InterAksyon.com, Fuglie LJ (2000) New Uses of Moringa Studied in Nicaragua.ECHO Development Notes #68, June, 2000. Ref: Nath D, N Sethi, et al. (1997) Survey on indigenous medicinal plants used for abortion in some districts of Uttar Pradesh. Fitoterapia 68(3): 223-225, www.medicalhealthguide.com

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Efforts to clean up the Pasig River and its tributaries are finally transforming squalid waterways

in Quezon City into inviting stretches of greenery.

An example is Pasong Tamo Creek which now has a linear park defining its banks where residents can take a leisurely stroll, something that was virtually impossible if not a risky thing to do two years ago.

The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission (PRRC) formally unveiled on January 22 the urban renewal projects for the creek, the first of three waterways in Quezon City that are up for redevelopment.

The other two are the San Francisco River and Culiat creek. All three are connected to San Juan River, which in turn flows into the Pasig River.

PRRC Executive Director Ronald Naguit said the 380-meter linear park is just the first part of the P48.5-million makeover planned for the 2.4-kilometer Pasong Tamo creek, which runs along Teresa-Fullon-San Miguel Village in Barangay Bahay Toro.

The park took two years to finish as

the work also involved dredging and landscaping, all costing about P9.5 million, Naguit said.

But the toughest challenge was clearing the three-meter easement set by the government along the banks and “recovering” this no-build zone from both informal settlers and encroaching property owners, a task that required help from the local government.

Barangay Bahay Toro Chair Dennis Caboboy said around 200 informal settler families in his village alone had to relocated to Cavite and Bulacan province.

Always needing rescueWe told them that the area (where they lived) is a danger zone and that their relocation is for the sake of their families,” Caboboy said in an interview. “We used to rescue them every time there was a storm as it took only minutes for the creek to overflow.”

The waterway was hardly inviting before the Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission stepped in.

Equally challenging was convincing private lot owners to allow the redevelopment to take up portions of their

properties. “We explained that it’s not just going to be a park: It will serve as a sort of service road that will enable us to clean the creek (regularly). We couldn’t access this area before,” the official pointed out.

The residents are expected to have a higher appreciation for the work and funding that went into these improvements, as well as develop a sense of responsibility to keep them from going to waste, Caboboy said. “We now have more open spaces for recreation that are aesthetically pleasing. It’s cleaner, safer, and for everybody’s benefit.”

In remarks made during the inauguration of the park, Quezon City Mayor Herbert Bautista noted that the Department of Justice (DOJ) played an important role in addressing the right-of-way issues that cropped up, especially those involving “private encroachers.”

“The DOJ should be involved from the beginning. So even if the [property owners] sue us, the Supreme Court itself can issue (an order) against them,” the mayor noted.

“That’s why the city government is confident in cleaning up and recovering our creeks,” he said.

(source http://newsinfo.inquirer.net)

From muck to park:Revival of QC creeks shows first results

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RIO DE JANEIRO — The world’s mightiest waterway, the Amazon River, is threatened by the most

diminutive of foes — a tiny mussel invading from China.

The golden mussel has claimed new territory at alarming speeds, plowing through indigenous flora and fauna as it has spread to waters in five countries.

Now, scientists fear the invasive species could make a jump into the Amazon, threatening one of the world’s unique ecological systems.

In this Jan. 29, 2015 photo, Brazilian researcher Marcela Uliano da Silva tweezes a golden mussel out of its shell at the Carlos Chagas Filho Biophysics Institute, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Golden mussels are filter-feeders, sucking in water and filtering out plankton and other microscopic bits of plant and animal life. Their proliferation can alter phosphorous and nitrogen levels in the water, producing blooms of toxic algae that can be deadly to aquatic creatures and humans.

The golden mussel, which commonly grows to no more than an inch in length, is a hardy breeder, reproducing nine months a year by releasing clouds of microscopic larvae that float with the current to new territories. They attach to hard surfaces like river bedrock, stones, man-made structures and even each other, forming large reef-like structures.

They have devastated native clam species by attaching themselves onto the local mollusks, sealing them shut. Their ability to clog pipes has forced operators of hydroelectric and water treatment plants in Sao Paulo state, Buenos Aires, Argentina, and elsewhere to spend millions of dollars annually to clear them out with chemical drips or shut down turbines to scrape out giant mussel formations.

Brazil’s government has been working to stop the golden mussel’s progress for a decade, requiring ships headed to Brazilian ports to stop at least 200 miles off the coast and empty the ballast waters while far at sea. One of Brazil’s top experts on the mussel, a 27-year-old doctoral student at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, believes she may have another solution: mapping the mussel’s genome and engineering a virus or other “bio bullet” that could render the species infertile. The idea is similar to efforts to combat dengue-transmitting mosquitoes by making them sterile. (JMFacunla—Excerpted from: AP/Manila Bulletin, February 5, 2015)

Brazil scientists fear golden mussel threat to Amazon River

SERENE, calm and captivating. Peaceful yet ever challenging…

Just a mere glimpse of our waterways today – with linear parks that are onset for construction in 2015 such as the Estero de Valencia Linear Park Package 2; Estero de Sampaloc Linear Park Package 2 both located in the City of Manila and the Poblacion Linear Park Package 2 located in the City of Makati along the Pasig River, made me find the answer why man, after he had achieved tremendous progress, has to go back to his mother nature. It’s such a feeling of freedom, of courage and passion that cannot be fully explained! And, it leaves me overwhelmed! Sanctified! Yielding to let the feeling out!

It’s a complete contrast between the “concrete jungle” and a spacious park…the former means survival of the fittest. With its noise and pollution, crime and disorder, pressure and hypocrisy, makes a mule not a man. The other taught me to submit: Something the city taught me superficially!

And with another look, there’s completeness inside of me. A sigh of relief…As if the time has stopped running out! Then I wondered, have I found a sanctuary at last?

A Glimpse of the Pasig River Today By: Arch. Melchor P. Oderon,

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It is not uncommon sight how formal and informal settlers have been blatantly encroaching 3-meter legal easement along the waterways in the country. How should the Pasig

River Rehabilitation Commission (PRRC), with the mandate to rehabilitate the Pasig River and its tributaries take back and then develop them into linear parks? This brings to the fore PRRC’s Easement Recovery, Housing and Resettlement (ERHR) division.

Ariel Maralit, head of PRRC’s ERHR said his division’s mandate is to recover and clear the easement of all the impediments because they are hindrances to waterways, which is in accordance with RA 7279 or the Urban Development and Housing Act. According to him, the 3-meter legal easement along the waterways is crucial for the maintenance and sustainability of PRRC’s projects like the development of linear parks and water quality improvement. And as a preliminary step, ERHR’s marching order is to clear first the easement of any impediment before any project begins.

Protecting rights of ISFMaralit also shared the factors which limit the division’s capabilities, one of which is the aspect on social preparation activity, though tedious, is pivotal to speeding up relocation. According to him, this entails protecting the rights of Informal Settler Families (ISFs) from being displaced from their homes. He also took note how the ISFs respond and conform to the requirements of relocation as there are those who are not willing to be relocated and eventually have to face forced demolition.

Opportunities for a better lifeMaralit is optimistic that there are more of those who welcome opportunities for a better life, realizing that, “kapag nasa waterways sila, it’s very dangerous for them. The waterways are strictly no build zones because they are danger zones. To build medium rise housing in those areas is not really feasible”, he added.

Sustainability is keyAre the relocation sites sustainable? “They are sustainable but sometimes it is unavoidable as well na may mga sumusubok pa rin the bumalik sa Metro Manila, especially in areas where they came from. Para sa kanila, their life, their livelihood is in Metro Manila”, Maralit explained.

Maralit observed that “may mga families who are resistant to change. But ‘yong mga magiging anak at apo nila na lumaki na doon sa resettlement sites, nakukuha ‘yong mindset na dito kami

nakatira, dito kami lumaki, dito na kami tatanda”.

He added: “Ang PRRC ay meron namang kabalikat na ibang ahensiya gaya ng National Housing Authority (NHA) para matulungan na manatili sila sa relocation sites”.

Double or Triple the numbersSince the inception of ERHR in 2012, Maralit said the division has managed with the help of Kapit Bisig Para Sa Ilog Pasig (KBPIP) to relocate 3,600. Thus far, PRRC was able to relocate around 1,000 a year. “We mean to double or triple those numbers within the year”, he said.

The division have hired personnel with special skills and relevant experience in dealing with communities both from the informal and formal to speed up the process of consultations to meet the timetable.

ERHR’s greatest contribution: Commitment and Intensified effortsAccording to Maralit, his division’s greatest contributions to PRRC are his team’s commitment and intensified efforts, they being at the forefront of operations and that their accomplishments are anchored on how their projects have progressed thru time.

“We view our projects as opportunities no matter how challenging they may be for us. Hindi kami nakatingin sa projects alone after clearing the easements. More importantly, we are after the communities na nabibigyan ng mas mainam na buhay. It is very rewarding not only for ERHR but for PRRC as a whole dahil may natutulungan tayong mga pamilya na magkaroon ng magandang kinabukasan”, he averred.

Challenges and opportunities: clean more esteros and tributaries“Marami pang mga esteros na kailangang trabahuhin. Marami pa tayong tributaries na kailangang ayusin before we are able to see and feel the impact of what we want for our communities” Maralit admitted.

“We have to remember that our partner agencies have also their own mandates. Ang ating approach diyan ay lagi tayong nakikipag-ugnayan sa kanila sa Local Interagency Committee meetings to forge collaborative efforts para maisulong ang ating mga proyekto,” he added.

ERHR on easement and estate management

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Volunteerism and commitment to environment is the direct way to progress and development”, said Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission (PRRC) Operations Director

Ramil R. Tan during the 15th Convocation of the University of the East (UE)-Manila National Students Training Program (NSTP) held 14 March 2015 at the UE-Manila Campus.

The UE-NSTP Convocation is a culminating activity that highlighted the students’ valuable experiences in community service through the Responses of selected NSTP graduating students reflecting on how they accomplished their tasks in the adopted community and barangays, as well as how NSTP transformed them into renewed citizens with a sense of commitment, patriotism, and national pride hence, significantly inspiring the students to bring forth the Filipino values, discipline and hardwork and adopt to themselves their accountability as citizens in nation building.

Tan, who is considered a community builder and public servant was invited by the UE-Manila to talk on the subject volunteerism and unwavering commitment in promoting environmental awareness before a sizeable number of NSTP students of the university. He elaborated that volunteerism is about having the personal interest to serve. It is about having the feeling of satisfaction and joy—a personal fulfilment to have shared genuine care for the communities served.

PRRC Operations Director on ‘Volunteerism and Environmental Awareness’ at UE-Manila NSTP

15th Convocation

With the theme, ‘A decade of Genuine Service and Renewed Commitment Towards a Sustainable and Empowered Community’, Tan inspired students and teachers to become more responsible citizens who are deeply concerned and committed to act as catalysts of change in society in the interest of the present generation and generations to come.

Tan remarked on the perennial nuisance of flooding and the appalling catastrophes that hound not only Metro Manila but across the country. He stressed that forest denudation and indiscriminate waste dumping in the rivers and esteros as the undeniable culprits. He said the only possible solution is strict observance of forest laws, compliance on solid waste management and similar State regulations and more importantly, discipline of Filipinos.

He cited as example PRRC’s River Warriors—a community-based volunteers trained on law enforcement, ecological solid waste management, leadership, estero rehabilitation and livelihood programs. These reinvigorated River Warriors will continue their commitment to safeguarding and taking care of the Pasig River and its tributaries under a revitalized program where they will be reintegrated in their respective local government units, particularly at the barangay levels.

Emphasizing on linkages between and among institutions in promoting environmental protection, awareness and education, Tan also took note about developing the youth’s civic consciousness and awareness and mobilization in nation building and community development as enshrined in RA 9163 or the NSTP.

In his final remark, Tan challenged the academe specially the students of their role in effectively transforming communities to become environmental challenged warriors since the youths have the opportunity for good and quality education instrumental in building a nation not only of professionals but of genuinely educated people with an utmost desire in protecting their environment. (JMFacunla, PRRC)

ERHR’s plans and programs: accomplish pending clearing and relocation activitiesMaralit noted that ERHR is the largest division with the formal and informal sections, the River Patrol, and Housing section that does estate management in Punta, Sta. Ana and Rodriguez, Rizal.

According to him, the thrust, which ERHR aims to do this year, is eventually to turn over to the National Housing Authority (NHA) the estate management; for the informal section of Quezon City, to accomplish all relocation activities by the end of the year; and that he intends to wind down the activities for the resettlement of Quezon City also by the end of the year.

For Manila, ERHR commits to accomplish majority of the Manila wateways with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the Manila LGU as partners and from there, push thru with the other tributaries.

Directions: more efficient relocation and clearing operationsMaralit revealed that they are aiming for a more efficient means of relocating ISFs and clearing easements of private properties, as well. ERHR is doing a lot of coordination and attending seminars to augment their capabilities. They have also partnership agreements with LGUs and the national government to expedite everything in the pipeline. Maralit hopes that those processes if not being considered as pilot, at least could be shared to partner agencies, if not with the national government to implement it on a nationwide scope.

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PRRC Deputy Executive Director for Operations Ramil Tan (center) received from UE-Manila a Certificate of Appreciation. (L-R): Director of UE-NSTP-OECO Dr. Rogelio I. Espiritu; Asst. NSTP Coordinator Dr. Madeleine M. Co; and component coordinators, Professors Gerardo Venturina -(Civic Welfare Training Service) and Allan Aggabao (Literacy Training Service).

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February 17, 18 and 20, 2015—RIVER PATROL DEMOLITION JOB: (a) The River Patrol team gathered enough strength in tearing down the concrete walls of the warehouse. (b) PRRC deputy executive director for operations Ramil Tan (rightmost), together with PRRC head for Easement Recovery and Housing Relocation Ariel Maralit (center), personally oversee the demolition by the PRRC’s River Patrol Team of an “old warehouse” situated along the San Francisco River at Barangay Talayan, Quezon City.

March 17, 2015—World Water Day 2015: The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission (PRRC) team is seen in this file photo during the kick-off of World Water Day (WWD) 2015 at the UP Bahay ng Alumni. (Left to right) PRRC Easement Recovery, Housing and Resettlement (ERHR) Head Ariel Maralit, PRRC Planning Officer Lira U, Canals, Public Information Advocacy and Tourism (PIATD) Information Officer Paulo Capuli, PIATD Head Jericho Von Miranda, PRRC Deputy Executive Director for Operations Ramil R. Tan, PRRC Executive Director Ronald A. Naguit and PRRC Riverbanks Development and Flood Control Division OIC Arch Nelia de Castro. Photo by Jelson Reginio, PRRC

February 20, 2015—Estero de Uli-Uli Inauguration: Pasig River

Rehabilitation Commission (PRRC) Admin Chief Lolita Historillo,

PRRC Deputy Executive Director for Finance and Administrative

Services Helen Arlene P. Quililan, PRRC Easement Recovery,

Housing and Resettlement (ERHR) Head Ariel Maralit, PRRC

Environmental Management Division Head Merliza Bonga and

PRRC Community Organizer Gloria Niñofranco during the ribbon

cutting at the Inauguration of Estero de Uli-Uli. Photo by Toni Go

ACTIONPRRC in

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Photo Releases

March 27, 2015—Relocation and Demolition: Fuelled by the passion and

continuing commitment to provide better life opportunities to Informal Settler

Families living along the esteros, the Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission’s (PRRC)

Easement Recovery Housing and Resettlement (ERHR) personnel facilitated the

relocation of informal settler families (ISF) at the Relocation Action Center (RAC).

Photo by Jelson Reginio, PRRC

March 19, 2015—Parola Relocatees in Pandi Bulacan. Hundreds of relocates get a briefing from Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission’s (PRRC) Amy Acebo during the relocation of Informal Settler Families (ISF) in Pandi, Bulacan. Photo by Jelson Reginio, PRRC

March 30, 2015—Boses: End violence against women and their children was the message of the film, ‘Boses’, an Indi film produced by Cinemalaya, shown to Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission (PRRC) personnel at the PRRC office on March 30, 2015 was a culminating activity of the Women’s month. PRRC’s Easement Recovery, Housing and Resettlement (ERHR) head Ariel Maralit (leftmost) together with the PRRC personnel while watching the film. Photo by Jelson Reginio, PRRC

January 14, 2015—Walkthrough: PRRC Deputy Executive Director Ramil R. Tan, PRRC Chair Regina Paz Lopez, PRRC Planning Head Engr. Reynaldo Ramos, Mr. Robert So, Jeffrey Quizon and PRRC Project Development Officer Faheem Agda during the walkthrough in Estero de Uli-Uli. Photo by Jericho Von Miranda, PRRC

March 28, 2015—Earth Hour: The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission (PRRC) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) expressed their support to Earth Hour 2015. Rovilson Fernandez and Marc Nelson hosted the event. Photo by Therese Tanquintic, PRRC

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Documents

The Official Newsletter of the Pasig River Rehabilitation ... · “Gusto ko matuto ng mga bagay na hindi ko pa alam gaya ng tamang pagtatapon ng basura”, said one of the participating