02prrc.gov.ph/images/ilognatin_pdf/2014_ILOG-NATIN-2nd-QTR-April-June_2014.pdf · 33 Sipatin ang mga salita Palaisipan 34 Tubig ng Estero Ang Alamat ng Ilog Pasig 17 Greater Public

Contents

What‘s inHere

Cover Photo:

The photo shows the boat tour of the rehabilitated Estero de San Miguel with PRRC Chairperson Regina Paz Lopez, PRRC Exec. Dir. Ronald Naguit and MMDA Chair Francis Tolentino.

Editorial AdvisorRegina Paz L. Lopez

Managing EditorRonald A. Naguit, MNSA

Senior EditorJudeJohn A. DeseoHelen Arlene P.Quililan

Editor-in-ChiefAmelita V. Gamay

Associate Editor-in-ChiefJericho Von I. MirandaManolito Boots B. Nicolas Associate and Layout EditorTherese S. Tanquintic

Head WriterManolito Boots B. Nicolas

Official PhotographerGarry G. Ignacio

ContributorsMerliza S. BongaEduardo B. Bornilla Jr.Lovely Joyce D. CalayagJosenar F. CaparasFrelyn ManieboJillian Alexis D. ManlangitGiovanni B. MercolesiaDr. Freddie R. ObligacionAllan RoraresMichael C. RubioPO2 Jobert A. SahagunLolita TuanquinDepartment of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)Environmental Management Bureau (EMB)Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA)Manila WaterNational Housing Authority (NHA)

EDITORIALBOARD

33 Sipatin ang mga salita Palaisipan 34 Tubig ng Estero Ang Alamat ng Ilog Pasig

17 Greater Public Participation in Environment Protection Urged 18 1ST Philippine Conference on Vetiver 19 DPWH pushes for “NO HOMES UNDER BRIDGE” 30,704 Homes for Metro ISFs in 2014 20 Pasig River Clean-up and Tree Planting Activity Along Pasig River 21 National Adopt-an-Estero /Water Body Program Assessed 23 Pasig City’s One Direction Towards a “GREEN CITY”

24 DENR-NCR is Manila Water’s newest Toka Toka partner Gov’t agencies join Manila Water’s Toka Toka campaign

10 Legal Easements:A Bird’s Eye View 25 The Green Initiative 27 Effective Non-Verbal Communication: A Conveyance of Symbolic Expression 28 How to understand the role of an “Estero Manager“ as a Community Organizer 29 What is VETIVER GRASS? 30 Promotion of Truth, Service and Common Good for the People

2 Rehabilitated “Estero de San Miguel” inaugurated 3 “Ang Halimaw sa Tubig” highlighted the launching of Estero Festival 4 EMC Action Plan for Solid Waste and Liquid Wastewater Management 5 Pasig River Unified Monitoring Station (PRUMS) 1st Quarter 7 A JOURNEY TO THE HEART OF THE PHILIPPINES PRRC’s Team Building and Advocacy-laden Activities 9 Estero de Sampaloc and Estero de Valencia inaugurated 11 PRRC holds GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT (GAD) SEMINAR-WORKSHOP 12 Office of the President Tours Pasig River 13 PRRC holds convention for estero partners in Estero de Paco 15 Inter-Agency Seminar-Workshop on Enforcement and Paralegal Training for Estero de Paco and Estero de Santibanez 31 Sir Simon Aguilon

PRRC Events and Projects

PilipiKNOW Corner

Features

Private Sector Partners

Government Sector Partners

Photo Release32 Seeing Through the Roving Lens: PRRC in Action

Photo by Gary Ignacio, PRRC

The Official Newsletter of the Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission

The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission (PRRC), in its mandate to clean the Pasig River and rehabilitate all the esteros and waterways that drain into it, inaugurated the rehabilitated Estero de San Miguel on June 4, 2014.

The event started with the unveiling of the marker followed by a walkthrough that began at Chino Roces Bridge (formerly Mendiola Bridge) and subsequently by a boat tour going towards P. Casal Bridge. PRRC Chairperson Regina Paz Lopez, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Atty. Francis Tolentino, and Ms Earth-Phils. Water Kimberly Covert toured the waterway via the boat paddled by the members of the Philippine Marines, followed by two MMDA boats, and a boat manned by the members of the PRRC River Patrol with members of the Local Inter-Agency Committee, PRRC partners and tri-media.

A symbolic ribbon-cutting, followed by a short program, highlighted the event with Chairman Suharto Buleg Jr. of Brgy. 647 San Miguel Manila welcoming the guests. Chairperson Lopez in her opening remarks said that “the rehabilitation of Estero de San Miguel brings the people closer toward the goal of cleaner esteros all throughout Metro Manila”. MMDA Chairman Tolentino expressed his agency’s support on all the present and future projects of the Commission.

The inauguration was also witnessed by Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Undersecretary for Urban Poor, Informal Settler Families and Special Concerns Francisco Fernandez; chairmen of different barangays, representatives from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD); the City Government of Manila, people’s organizations and PRRC partner agencies. Boots B. Nicolas, PRRC

Rehabilitated “Estero de San Miguel”inaugurated

Ribbon-cutting ceremony at Estero de San Miguel. Photo by Garry Ignacio,PRRC

PRRC Chair Gina Lopez, Ms.Earth-Phils Water Kimberly Covert and MMDA Chair Francis Tolentino unveils the marker at Estero de San Miguel. Photo by Garry Ignacio, PRRC

MMDA Shair Francis Tolentino expresses support for PRRC’s estero projects. Photo by Garry Ignacio, PRRC

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April - June 2014 | Volume 2 | Issue 2

The global theme for this year’s Earth Day is “Green Cities”, which

focuses on three elements – air, water and soil – to help cities

become more sustainable.

As part of the International Mother Earth Day celebration, Asian

Development Bank (ADB) and Maynilad, in cooperation with

the Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission (PRRC) and ABS-CBN

Foundation launched the “Estero Festival” on 22nd of April with the

play, “Ang Halimaw sa Tubig” (The Monster in the Water) being

the main highlight, at the ADB Auditorium in Pasig City.

The play aims to raise awareness on the importance of sanitation,

wastewater and solid waste management to improve the health

and environmental conditions and uplift the living conditions of the

people living along the Pasig River and its tributaries.

The play evolves in an epidemic which is on the rise. Why people

living along the riverbanks mysteriously getting ill. A young lass

stumbles upon the dark secrets of the river, shrouded beneath the

heaps of domestic garbage and a cloud of oblivion prevails in the

entire community. But when she attempts to unravel this secret, no

one believes her. They believe she is fabricating stories – until they

finally behold the truth before their very eyes and are faced with

its inescapable consequences.

Character actor Miguel Faustmann from Repertory Philippines

directed the play that cast students from Mariano Marcos

Memorial High School, Sta. Ana Elementary School and the River

Warriors from Estero de Paco. Renowned folk singer Joey Ayala

composed the finale song for the play which was written by Eliseo

Garcia Nieto and conceptualized by Javier Coloma Brotons.

Boots B. Nicolas, PRRC

“Ang Halimaw sa Tubig” highlighted the launching of Estero Festival

PRRC representatives grace the launch of the estero. Photo by Boots B. Nicolas, PRRC

Maynilad Head for Corporate Quality, Environment, Safety and Health Division Engr.Francis Arellano expresses their support in advocating waste water management. Photo by Boots B. Nicolas, PRRC

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The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission, together with the Environmental Management Committee (EMC) Member Agencies and concerned Local Government Units, formulated an action plan for the enforcement of laws, rules and regulations pertaining to the direct dumping of solid wastes and liquid wastewater into the Pasig River and its tributaries.

In the 3-day planning workshop held last March 2014 at Clarkfield, Pampanga, participating Agencies and LGUs discussed and formulated action plans that aim to address four major point sources of pollution that cause the continuous degradation of the Pasig River system, namely: (1) indiscriminate dumping of solid wastes; (2) discharges of untreated raw wastewater from the households and small-scale establishments; (3) unidentified illegal tappings to the drainage canals that directly flow to the waterways; and (4) non-compliance of big industrial and commercial establishments to environmental standards. The action plans consist of baseline identification and data gathering, data gap analysis, revalidation and finalization of outputs, dissemination and consultation, implementation and monitoring, and evaluation.

As of writing, the action plans are in the data gathering and data gap analysis stage. The PRRC has started the survey of existing outfalls and conditions in Estero de Sampaloc and Estero de Valencia, as well as the identification of drainage and sewer lines in said areas. A database of water quality monitoring statistics, accomplishment reports and environmental laws, plans and projects from the different Agencies and LGUs is also being developed and updated. Other programs, such as installation of garbage traps/garbage conveyor with boomtraps along waterways, solid waste profiling, construction of septic tanks and interceptors, are in the planning stage.

Among the various initiatives done by the PRRC with regards to the formulation of baseline information, noteworthy is the survey of septic tanks and sewage of residential, commercial and microbusiness establishments at Estero de Sampaloc and Estero de Valencia using the ISHER database management system conceptualized by the DENR. The results of the study shall be released by the Environmental Management Division towards the end of 2014.

Jillian Alexis D. Manlangit and Eduardo B. Bornilla Jr.,PRRC Environmental Management Division

Informal Settlers Homes, Establishments and Riverways (ISHER) Survey at Estero de Sampaloc

Point sources of pollution that contribute to the esteros’ current status is the direct discharge wastewater from residential, commercial and microbusiness establishments. As an intervention, the Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission (PRRC) surveyed, assessed and mapped-out establishments, identifying those with and without septic tanks or sewage treatment plants that discharge directly into the estero. The output of the survey was a map of Estero de Sampaloc showing the outfalls and establishments that discharge directly to the estero.

The PRRC survey team coordinated with barangay officials adjacent to Estero de Sampaloc. Survey forms in Filipino for residential establishments were prepared and distributed to every household along the estero. On the other hand, interviews were conducted in every commercial establishment. The coordinates of establishments which were found to lack septic tanks or sewage treatment facilities, were recorded using a Global Positioning System (GPS) gadget.

There were several problems that were encountered by the team during the survey. There were sceptic and uncooperative residents who were anxious to give information. But the bigger challenge was the absence of residents to be interviewed in some houses creating information gaps. Some unfamiliar concepts about septic tanks were clarified and ably discussed. Minor problems such as stray dogs and the slow stabilization of the GPS coordinates were also encountered.

During the survey, the team frequently encountered various questions pertaining to the program. Primary concern of those establishments without septic tanks or sewage treatment facility was the cost of tapping to the existing Maynilad Sewer Lines. The team explained the significance and implications of tapping to the sewer lines compared to direct discharge of their sewage into the estero. It was important for these residents to be aware of these existing lines to be able to cooperate well with PRRC in attaining its goal.

It was a tough job to extract information. But at the end of the day, another important accomplishment of the team was the information disseminated to the residents of Sampaloc on the efforts of PRRC, as well as, the change in their outlook that there is hope in rehabilitating the Pasig River through a participative and cooperative group action.

EMC Action Plan for Solid Waste and Liquid Wastewater Management

Representatives of various Agencies and concerned LGUs during the EMC Planning Workshop

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In line with the Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission’s (PRRC) mandate to rehabilitate the Pasig River to a Class C and SB standard, the PRUMS or Pasig River Unified Monitoring Stations project was initiated. It began on January 26, 2009 and was organized by the four agencies; Environmental Management Bureau, National Capital Region (EMB-NCR), Environmental Management Bureau, Central Office (EMB-CO), Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA) and the Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission (PRRC). PRUMS Project harmonizes the water quality monitoring stations along the Pasig River and provides a coherent water quality report for public information.Results of the PRUMS shows that the first quarter which is part of the dry season the water tends to be more concentrated and manifests poorer water quality compared to the wet season.

Monitoring results showed that the Biochemical Oxygen Demand during this quarter is higher by 22.01% compared to the first quarter of 2009. Thus, all of the stations did not meet the Class C and SB criteria for BOD. In relation to this, the Dissolved Oxygen concentration was up by 11.61% compared to the 2009 reference data. The higher the DO concentration the more it is capable to sustain aquatic life.

This quarter based on the laboratory results the Total Suspended Solids decreased by 49.17%, Oil and Grease increased by 34.24%, compared to the fourth quarter of 2009. From 2009-2014 an increase of 53.08% in Nitrate was observed. Furthermore, the Phosphate concentration increased from 1.85 mg/L to 10.22 mg/L, a high Surfactant concentration was also seen in stations that also have the highest Phosphate concentrations. This result shows us that liquid domestic and industrial wastes/ laundry washings are the primary source of these nutrients. There was also an increase in Total Coliform from 1.78 x 106 MPN/100 mL to 3.69 x108 MPN/100 mL that was observed. The high Total and Fecal Coliform concentrations are the effect of improper sanitation practices and sewage system of the residents and the industries that surrounds the Pasig River. In addition to this, a significant rise in cadmium from 0.002 mg/L to 0.039 mg/L, Chromium from 0.005 mg/L to 0.086 mg/L and Lead from 0.01 mg/L to 0.057 mg/L was observed. These heavy metals primary sources come from industrial effluents, paint, old pipes, fuel, pigments, glass, batteries, electroplating, ink, wood preservatives, leather tanning and textiles.

Generally, the water quality condition this first quarter continues to deteriorate. This is due to the domestic indiscriminate dumping of liquid and solid wastes from various non-point sources in the Pasig River. These are still the primary source of pollution and the primary source of nutrients in the river. However, another contributor to the poor water quality this quarter is the high temperature that is happening and the less rain we are experiencing this last few months. High temperature means lower capacity of the river to contain dissolved oxygen while less rain means that the excess amount of nutrients and heavy metals in the river is not being flushed out.Lovely Joyce D. Calayag, PRRC Environmental Management Division

Table1. Summary of Dissolved Oxygen (DO) and Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) Concentrations

Pasig River Unified Monitoring Station (PRUMS)1st Quarter 2014

Station

JANUARY 2014

FEBRUARY 2014

MARCH 2014

Total Coliform

MPN/100mL

Fecal Coliform

MPN/100mL

Total Coliform

MPN/100mL

Fecal Coliform

MPN/100mL

Total Coliform

MPN/100mL

Fecal Coliform

MPN/100mL

C6 Bridge 92x102 92x102 14x102 14x102 17x103 33x102

Bambang Bridge 49x104 49x104 17x106 17x106 54x105 35x105

Vargas Bridge 28x106 28x106 92x104 92x104 16x106 22x105

Marikina Bridge 22x106 14x106 24x107 24x107 35x107 35x107

Buayang

Bato 92x108 92x108 16x107 16x107 22x106

22x106

Guadalupe Ferry

Station 13x105 13x105 46x105 46x105 54x105 54x105

Guadalupe Nuevo 24x108 24x108

92x107 92x107 54x106

54x106

Guadalupe Viejo 70x107 46x107 54x106 54x106 16x107 54x106

Sevilla

Bridge 16x107 16x107 35x106 63x105 16x107 54x106

Lambingan Bridge 11x105 11x105 54x104 13x104 79x104 79x104

Havana Bridge 35x105 35x105 35x107 35x107 35x107 35x107

Nagtahan Bridge 92x104 92x104 79x104 79x104 54x106 17x106

Jones Bridge 63x104

17x104 92x104 92x104 54x105 13x105

Manila Bay 54x104 24x104 14x105

70x104

22x105

17x105

Station

January 2014

February 2014

March 2014 DO

Criterion BOD

Criterion DO* mg/L

BOD mg/L

DO* mg/L

BOD mg/L

DO* mg/L

BOD mg/L

C6 Bridge 6.60

14.00 7.30

8

4.40

12.00

5 7

Bambang Bridge 0.75 20.00 3.90 28.00 2.80 26.00 5 7

Vargas Bridge 1.35 22.00 0.00 52.00 0.00 84.00 5 7

Marikina Bridge 7.55 10.00 1.60 38.00 0.50 45.00 5 7

Buayang Bato 0.00 128.00 2.90 118.00 3.10 74.00 5 7

Guadalupe Ferry Station 4.85 16.00 4.30 12.00 2.10 8.00 5 7

Guadalupe Nuevo 0.60 92.00 0.00 98.00 0.00 108.00

5

7

Guadalupe Viejo

5.70 76.00 0.00 82.00 0.00 50.00 5 7

Sevilla Bridge

2.75 50.00 0.00 106.00 0.00 50.00 5 7

Lambingan

Bridge 0.00 8.00 4.60 12.00 3.40 18.00 5 7

Havana Bridge

5.45 94.00 0.00 122.00 0.00 112.00 5 7

Nagtahan Bridge 0.00 10.00 2.40 10.00 0.90 14.00 5 7

Jones Bridge 3.30 14.00 2.30 14.00 3.60 12.00 5 7

Manila Bay

3.40 8.00 1.60 10.00 0.20 10.00 5 5

Note: DAO 34 (1990)Standard for Class C and SB; DO- 5.00mg/L DAO 34 (1990) Standard for Class C; BOD- 7.00mg/L Class SB-5.00mg/L

Note: DAO 34 (1990) Standard for Class C; Total Coliform- 5000 MPN/100 mL, SB-1000 MPN/ 100 mL


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February 26, 2014 Havana Station

Note: DAO 34 (1990)Standard for Class C and SB; DO- 5.00mg/L

Note: DAO 34 (1990) Standard for Class C; BOD- 7.00mg/L Class SB-5.00mg/L

Note: No DAO 34 (1990) standard

Note: DAO 34 (1990) Standard for Class C; Total Coliform- 5000 MPN/100 mL, SB-1000 MPN/ 100 mL

February 26, 2014 Manila Bay station

February 27, 2014 Guadalupe Ferry Station

C6 Bridge BambangBridge

Vargas Bridge

Marikina Bridge

Buayang bato

Guadalupe Ferry

Station

Guadalupe Nuevo

Guadalupe Viejo

Sevilla Bridge

Lambingan Bridge

Nagtahan Bridge

Havana Bridge

Jones Bridge

Manila Bay


Vargas Bridge

Marikina Bridge

Buayang bato

Guadalupe Ferry

Station

Guadalupe Nuevo

Guadalupe Viejo

Sevilla Bridge

Lambingan Bridge

Nagtahan Bridge

Havana Bridge

Jones Bridge

Manila Bay


Vargas Bridge

Marikina Bridge

Buayang bato

Guadalupe Ferry

Station

Guadalupe Nuevo

Guadalupe Viejo

Sevilla Bridge

Lambingan Bridge

Nagtahan Bridge

Havana Bridge

Jones Bridge

Manila Bay


Vargas Bridge

Marikina Bridge

Buayang bato

Guadalupe Ferry

Station

Guadalupe Nuevo

Guadalupe Viejo

Sevilla Bridge

Lambingan Bridge

Nagtahan Bridge

Havana Bridge

Jones Bridge

Manila Bay

Pasig River Unified Monitoring System Map


In this world of fast paced technology, it’s important to take a

much needed break. An out of town environment coupled with

fun and relaxation will help everyone refresh and rejuvenate.

With this view comes into play the annual holding of Pasig River

Rehabilitation Commission (PRRC) team-building which forges

strong relationships, fosters happiness, strengthens camaraderie

and increases productivity.

Scavenger hunting towards the Hidden Paradise Falls of Tukuran

in Pinamalayan, Oriental Mindoro… Trekking, snorkelling, boating

and rendering expeditious and instantaneous community service

in the breath-taking island of Sibale in Romblon… and planting

of mangroves in a 42-hectare wetland ecosystem of Silonay

Mangrove Conservation and Eco-Tourism Park in Calapan, Oriental

Mindoro were the major advocacy efforts done by the PRRC in its

three-day team building from May 12 – 14, 2014.

According to Robins and Coulter in their book “Management”,

team building is defined as ‘interaction among members of work

teams to learn how each member thinks and works’. The key

phrase here is ‘to learn how each member thinks and works’.

PRRC management teams and personnel were formed into five

groups with respective team leaders namely: RED team (Haydee

Torralba), YELLOW team (Boots B. Nicolas), ORANGE team (Angelita

Galano), VIOLET team (Jovito Calagos), and PINK team (Jericho

Von Miranda) equally divided male and female with 23 members

each to maximize team performance.

FIRST DAY

While waiting for a boat ride from Batangas Port to Calapan

Oriental Mindoro, team building facilitators instructed each group

to formulate an environmental slogan and cheer leading chant,

which will serve as a precursor for group members to interact and

familiarize among themselves.

In Tukuran Falls, each team were formed into two groups: one

that will trek the river and the other will ride the buffalo cart.

Though formed separately, there’s one objective in this task: that

is to hunt and seek for clues leading to the answer of a certain

query. Before reaching the so-called Hidden Paradise of Tukuran

Falls, it’s amazing how the entire group hurdled six river crossings,

a Mangyan community, and a never-ending trail of fruit-bearing

trees such as coconut, lanzones and blackberry.

A JOURNEY TO THE HEART OF THE PHILIPPINES

PRRC’s Team Building and Advocacy-laden Activities

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The PRRC personel take a carabao-cart ride during a scavenger hunt activity. Photo by Garry Ignacio, PRRC


SECOND DAYThe day is much enticing for after the breakfast, the teams witness the lush greenery of Maestre de Campo in the island of Sibale in Romblon (which geographically speaking is in the heart of the Philippines and somewhere in between Romblon and Oriental, Mindoro). In the Municipality of Concepcion, Romblon, PRRC was welcomed by no less than Mayor Lemuel Cipriano and the town’s Drum and Lyre Corps.

Before plunging into the activities on that day, the warmth and hospitality of the locals were felt when they hosted a lunch served with the town’s native delicacies cooked and prepared through native bamboo plates and cups. This festive mood energized the

group to go trekking the Concepcion Forest Park, wherein every group member must plant a tree as one of PRRC’s advocacy for the environment. Then, we explore the waters of the island by venturing into snorkelling activities. Much fun was brought here as we can clearly see marine species underneath in this pristine and crystal-clear waters.

Sibale’s experience was highlighted by a community service of all able-bodied men to carry the soil, using the wheel-barrow, to the soon to be constructed school-building while the onlooking female group members cheered and chanted to the delight of the crowd.

In the nightcap of the penultimate day, various games were played to test the familiarity and communication abilities of the members of each group. Afterwards, event facilitators evaluated the

performance of each team. With all the hurdles and challenges, the YELLOW TEAM emerged as the over-all champion followed by the PINK TEAM, RED TEAM, ORANGE TEAM and VIOLET TEAM.

THIRD DAYOn the last day, PRRC personnel went to Silonay Mangrove Park to plant mangroves in this 42-hectare wetland that serves as buffer to rising floods and storm surges. PRRC were welcomed by the unbelievable scenery on the ways how the locals conserve this precious ecosystem.

The event turned immensely positive as the level of joy and happiness of personnel was high and all went home re-energized. Truly, as Henry Ford stated “coming together is a beginning; keeping together is a process; working together is a success.” Two heads are better than one because everyone has different perspectives, and if you can put some time and effort into getting to know your colleagues on a personal level, your agency’s work will benefit from these multiple points of view.

Team building events therefore should go beyond the idea of ‘pleasure and leisure’. They have to allow for learning about how each member of the team thinks and works in relation to the workplace. However, most team building practitioners today are commonly using team building events to simply encourage people to work together and not learn about how each team member actually thinks and behaves. The patented message carried behind the way most team building is ‘you all must learn to

work as a team’. Boots B. Nicolas, PRRC

The male personel volunteered in the community Service race for Sibale’s multi-purpose covered court. Photo by Garry Ignacio, PRRC

Part of the day’s itinerary is the forest tour.Participants were guided to proper handling of seedlings. Photo by Garry Ignacio, PRRC

PRRC community organizer Sofia Macaraja joins the mangroves planting activity. Photo by Garry Ignacio, PRRC

The loot stop for the trip is a refreshing tour of Mangrove Park. Photo by Garry Ignacio, PRRC

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Photo by Gary Ignacio, PRRC

The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission (PRRC) on June 11, 2014, formally inaugurated two rehabilitated esteros of the Pasig River in the City of Manila: Estero de Sampaloc and Estero de Valencia.

PRRC Chair Regina Paz Lopez, MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino, Miss Phils-Earth Beauties and Yeng Constantino graced the event which began with a walkthrough from Valencia Pumping Station in Sta. Mesa and ended at Loyola in Sampaloc, Manila. It culmi-nated with a program proper with Chairperson Lopez expressing her gratitude for all the people who gave their efforts to rehabili-tate the said esteros.

Chairman Tolentino on his part emphasized that the success of the PRRC’s programs to rehabilitate these esteros signifies freedom of the people from unwanted garbage and clogged waterways, in time with the celebration of Independence Day on June 12.

Singer Yeng Constantino, on the other hand, reiterated how signifi-cant to take care of our environment by simply throwing rubbish to respective garbage cans to prevent flooding.

The 1,139 – meter Estero de Sampaloc and 522 – meter Estero de Valencia were rehabilitated by conducting riverbed dredging and desilting works, riverbank development, phytoremediation and bioremediation. Almost 350 informal settler families (ISF) were

relocated to Balagtas and Gaya-Gaya in the province of Bulacan as part of the estero rehabilitation.

Residents of the barangays in the periphery of the esteros ex-pressed their gratitude as the rehabilitation did not only clean the esteros, but also improved the quality of their lives. They are also committed to the sustainability of cleaning the environment as an important factor in reducing floods in Manila.Boots B. Nicolas, PRRC

Estero de Sampaloc and Estero de Valencia

inaugurated

PRRC Chair Gina Lopez, MMDA Chair Francis Tolentino and singer Yeng Constantino walking along the rehabilitated Estero de Valencia. Photo by Garry Ignacio, PRRC

UNITED AS ONE. from left to right: Ronaldo Santos (USO Manila), ASec. Eddie Nuque (OP), MMDA Chairman Tolentino, PRRC Chair Lopez, KBPIP Proj. Dir. Mike Rubio, MMDA Gen, Mngr. Corazon Jimenez and PPRC Exec. Dir. Ronald Naguit. Photo by Garry Ignacio, PRRC

The unveiling of the marker at Estero de Valencia with Yeng Constantino. Looking in are PRRC Chair Lopez, Exec. Dir. Ronald Naguit and MMDA Chairman Tolentino. Photo by Garry Ignacio, PRRC

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The Civil Code of the Philippines defines easement as an encumbrance imposed upon an immovable for the benefit of another immovable belonging to a different owner or for the benefit of a community, or of one or more persons to whom the encumbered estate does not belong.

An easement or servitude is a real right on another’s property, corporeal and immovable, whereby the owner of the latter must refrain from doing or allowing somebody else to do or something to be done on his or her property, for the benefit of another person or tenement; it is jus in re aliena, inseparable from the estate to which it actively or passively belongs, indivisible, perpetual, and a continuing property right, unless extinguished by causes provided by law. (Villanueva v. Velasco, 399 Phil 664 & Quimen v. Court of Appeals, 326 Phil 969)

There are two kinds of easement according to source: by law or by will of the owners – the former are called legal and the latter voluntary easement. A legal easement or compulsory easement, or an easement by necessity constituted by law has for its object either public use or the interest of private persons.

The three-meter legal easement rule, which is considered as public property and part of public dominion, is underscored under Article 502 of the New Civil Code which states that;

• The following are of public dominion:1. Rivers and their natural beds;

2. Continuous or intermittent waters of springs and brooks running in their natural beds and the beds themselves;3. Waters rising continuously or intermittently on lands of public dominion;4. Lakes and lagoons formed by Nature on public lands, and their beds;5. Rain waters running through ravines or sand beds, which are also of public dominion;6. Subterranean waters on public lands;7. Waters found within the zone of operation of public works, even if constructed by a contractor;8. Waters rising continuously or intermittently on lands belonging to private persons, to the State, to a province, or to a city or a municipality from the moment they leave such lands;9. The waste waters of fountains, sewers and public establishments.

Furthermore, Article 638 of the Civil Code of the Philippines states that, “The banks of rivers and streams, even in case they are private ownership, are subject throughout their entire length and within a zone of three meters along their margins, to the easement of public use in the general interest of navigation, floatage, fishing and salvage”.

Estates adjoining the banks of navigable or floatable rivers are, furthermore, subject to the easement of towpath for the exclusive service of river navigation and floatage.

If it be necessary for such purpose to occupy lands of private ownership,

the proper indemnity shall first be paid. Boots B. Nicolas, PRRC

DEFINING LEGAL EASEMENTS

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Consistent with the government’s policy of adopting Gender and Development (GAD) program which recognizes the equality of men and women, and to incorporate and reflect GAD concerns in agency performance commitment contracts, annual budget proposals, work and financial plans, Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission (PRRC) held a two-day seminar on Gender Mainstreaming and Analysis from June 26-27, 2014 at the University Hotel of University of the Philippines in Diliman, Quezon City.

The event was a combination of lecture and workshop participated by members of PRRC GAD Focal Point System chaired by Ms. Lolita O. Historillo, PRRC’s Chief Administrative Officer with its members coming from various division heads of PRRC. A Technical Working Group and other key personnel, representing all divisions within the PRRC, also attended the seminar-workshop with Ms. Katherine Vinegas as a resource person referred by the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW).

The first day of the seminar-workshop was divided into three sessions:

• Session 1: GAD Mandates

International Mandates R.A. 9710 “Magna Carta of Women” Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) Memorandum Circular 2011-11 Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) – National Economic Development Authority NEDA) – Department of Budget and Management (DBM) 2012-01

• Session 2: Basic GAD Concepts Sex and Gender Gender Roles

Gender Division of Labor Manifestations of Gender Bias Gender and Development• Session 3: Gender Analysis Gender Mainstreaming Evaluation Framework GMEF Workshop.

The second day includes:

• GMEF Workshop Output Presentation and Discussion• Harmonized GAD Guidelines•Workshop on the Harmonized GAD Guidelines• Presentation of Workshop Outputs• Three-year GAD Planning.

It is expected that after this seminar-workshop, the GAD Focal Point System, the Technical Working Group and Key personnel of PRRC will be capacitated in the preparation of GAD plan, budget and accomplishment report and learn how to implement projects in gender analysis using Harmonized Gender and Development Guidelines (HGDG). Boots B. Nicolas, PRRC

PRRC HOLDS GENDER AND DEVELOPMENT (GAD) SEMINAR-WORKSHOP

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Resource Speaker for gender and Mainstreaming and Analysis Katherine Viregas discusses the Magna Carta of Woman. Photo by Garry Ignacio, PRRC

Easement Recovery and Housing Resettlement Head Ariel Maralit (in blue hoodie) with members for various PRRC division form groups for initial planning for the Commission’s GAD programs. Photo by Garry Ignacio, PRRC

Deputy Director for Finance and Administrative Service Helen Quililan emphasizes the importance of GAD program. Photo by Garry Ignacio, PRRC


The Office of the President represented by Assistant Secretary Joel M. Villaseca made an ocular inspection of the Pasig River thru the Pasig River Ferry in the morning of May 30, 2014. The tour started from Plaza Mexico Station to Guadalupe Station and vice-versa.

Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission (PRRC) Executive Director Ronald A. Naguit, PRRC Public Information, Advocacy and Tourism Head Amelita V. Gamay and MMDA Planning Officer Reynaldo V. Lunas welcomed the representatives of the Office of the President at Plaza Mexico Station in Intramuros, Manila.

Lunas briefly oriented the attendees on the plans of MMDA that led to the reopening of the Pasig River Ferry Service. According to him, the ferry service is being eyed by MMDA Chair Francis Tolentino as an alternative mode of transportation while major road works are on-going.

On board the Orient Sea Crest, which is one of the boats being used by the private operators, were PRRC Planning Head Engr. Reynaldo Ramos, Dir. Alberto Kimpo of OP-GPMO, Dir. Cherry Rose Tena of OES-GSG, Dir. Gloria Bundoc and Dir. Rodolfo Pinto Jr. of OP-Finance and Dir. Cristina Villarica of OP-Appointments.

Several insights were shared after the tour. Dir. Villarica saw the improvement of the Pasig River and stressed the importance of maintaining the rehabilitation of the river. But she noted that there must be a plan to continuously improve the water quality of the Pasig River for the convenience of the passengers who are bound to their respective destinations. Dir. Kimpo said that the current operation of the ferry service has been an improvement compared to the previous one. Dir. Tena on the other hand, noticed that informal settler families (ISFs) along the banks of the Pasig River must be addressed and that dwellings and factories must take action in water protection.

Asec. Villaseca thanked the MMDA, PRRC, and DOTC for the Pasig River Ferry Service. He said that it will be a big help to decongest traffic once government infrastructure works commenced. Boots B. Nicolas, PRRC

Office of the President Tours Pasig River

The Technical working Group of the office of the President with Engr.Reynaldo Ramos PRRC Planning Head (extreme left) and Amelita V. Gamay, PRRC PIAT Head (2nd from the left). Photo by Garry Ignacio, PRRC

Dir. Alberto Kimpo of OP-GPMO embarking from the boat after a trip from Guadalupe to plaza Mexico. Photo by Garry Ignacio, PRRC

ASEC.Joel Villaseca (1st row) of the office of the President and Dir. Kimpo (2nd row) on the board Orient Sea Crest. Photo by Garry Ignacio, PRRC

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Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission (PRRC), in its mission to transform the Pasig River and its tributaries into a new quality of urban life held the Estero de Paco Barangay Convention on the 16th of May at the College of the Holy Spirit in Mendiola, Manila.

The convention aims to identify issues and concerns with the existing ecological solid waste management, waste water management and sanitation and sewerage management programs implemented in the peripheral barangays of Estero de Paco.

Dr. Concepcion Lizada of the College of the Holy Spirit welcomed

the participants and expressed her belief in the goal to rehabilitate the Pasig River and its tributaries. PRRC Executive Director Ronald A. Naguit acknowledged the active participation of PRRC’s partner agencies for the success of the convention. Executive Director Naguit added that in order to improve the community, barangay leaders should follow the guiding principle of LEAD which stands for “Learn, Evaluate, Act, and Develop”. PRRC Chair Regina Paz Lopez gave an inspirational message which highlighted the significant role of the barangay to infuse change and development for the communities along Estero de Paco.

Michael Rubio, Project Director of Kapit Bisig Para Sa Ilog Pasig (KBPIP), presented the first topic regarding proper solid waste management in Estero de Paco. He concisely expounded the various activities undertaken as part of the solid waste management information campaign. A quick presentation from popular folk singer and environmental advocate Joey Ayala followed the first lecture. Ayala enlightened the participants with his concept of “Salundiwa”, short for “pagsalo ng diwa” for which he stressed that people usually take for granted the importance of little things in the environment.

The Solid Waste Management Program of Manila was presented by Head of Department of Public Services Lillybelle Borromeo. Borromeo urged the support of the barangay leaders to instill and promote discipline to its constituents on proper solid waste management disposal.

Joma Lim, consultant from Asian Development Bank (ADB-INCLAM) presented the baseline date of Estero de Paco which was gathered in 2009 and was compared to its recent data. The data shows significant decrease in the number of households following proper waste segregation. Lim further challenged the barangay leaders to hasten its compliance.

Topics on Waste Water Management covered the second part of the program which was ably presented by Javier Coloma Brotons, an ADB Urban Development Specialist on Water Supply and Sanitation. Brotons emphatically intertwine the connection between water sanitation

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PRRC holds convention for estero partners in Estero de Paco

Folk signer Joey Ayala sings environmentally inspired songs for estero partners. Photo by Garry Ignacio,PRRC


14Ilog Natinand public health. An informative video on the dynamics and technicalities of the maintenance of septic tank was shown during the presentation of Celso Umali of Maynilad.

After the lecture presentations, the participants were divided into five groups to formulate, discuss and plan solutions to improve its solid waste and waste water management programs. The five break-out groups were guided by facilitators from ADB-INCLAM, UN Habitat for Humanity, KBPIP and PRRC.The groups were given 10 minutes to present their plans to the panel of reactors which is composed of representatives from Department of Public Services of the City of Manila, City Engineering Office of Manila, MMDA Flood Control Division, DENR-National Solid Waste Management Committee, Manila Sanitation Division and was co-chaired by Michael Rubio and PRRC Deputy Executive Director for Operations Engr. Jude John Deseo.

The plans and solutions taken from the five groups were synthesized by Atty. Donna Gasgonia, Adviser to the Office of City Mayor of Manila. Atty. Gasgonia announced that there is a proposal for a task force composed the departments from Manila City LGU that will entirely focus for the rehabilitation of the esteros.

Estero Manager from KBPIP Jonald Balgos said that the action plans set forth in the convention should have a follow-up coordination with the barangay representatives which will be handled by the community organizers of Estero de Paco.

Before the forum ended, the barangay leaders recited its commitment as Engr. Deseo led the reciting of the “Declaration of Commitment for Joint Action on Estero de Paco”. After verbalizing their commitment, the participants signed their names on the Commitment Wall.Boots B. Nicolas, PRRC Ms.Frelyn Maniebo of DPS Manila shares her thoughts on Solid waste management program of City of

manila. Photo by Garry Ignacio,PRRC

PRRC Chair Gina Lopez giving an inspirational message to barangay leaders. Photo by Garry Ignacio,PRRC

Barangay leaders signing the “Declaration of commitment for Joint Action on Estero de Paco“ Photo by Garry Ignacio,PRRC


A seminar-workshop on Enforcement and Paralegal Training for peripheral barangays of Estero de Paco and Estero de Santibanez was held on June 19, 2014 at Cecilia Munoz Palma Hall of Universidad de Manila (UDM).

According to Mr. Mike Rubio, KBPIP Project Director, the purpose of this seminar-workshop is to equip both elected and appointed barangay officials the knowledge about enforcement and paralegal training in the implementation of laws and ordinances relating to R.A. 9003 or the “Ecological Solid Waste Management Act”, Presidential Decree 1067 or the “Water Code of the Philippines”, and the related articles under the Civil Code of the Philippines referring to Easements.

Ms. Angelita Galano, PRRC Information Officer III, applauded the efforts of various barangay councils in the sustainability of the projects and programs in place for Estero de Paco and Santibanez.

Expectations, as to the output of the seminar-workshop, of each barangay were given by the following barangay officials:

• Chairwoman Teresita Sikat of Brgy. 662;• Chairman Alfredo Tan of Brgy. 735;• Kag. Benito Addun of Brgy. 679;• Chairman Benigno Addun of Brgy. 679;• Chairman Eduardo Joson of Brgy. 686;• Chairman Alexander Cubillas of Brgy. 673;• Chairwoman Rowena Cruz of Brgy. 811; and• Chairwoman Norma Desiderio of Brgy. 671.

The seminar/lecture proper was presided by Atty. Donna Gasgonia from the Office of the City Mayor of Manila. She enumerated the existing ordinances being implemented by the City of Manila on waste management, wastewater, encroachments and obstruction.

According to Atty. Gasgonia, the following are the Ordinances of the City of Manila:

• Ordinance No. 7397 = “Dumping, placing, throwing of waste/refuse/garbage materials, papers, cigarette butts and the like” ANTI-LITTERING;

• Ordinance No. 7404 = Governing solid waste practices including prohibitions of open dumping on vacant lot or properties on esteros and other water courses”;

• Ordinance No. 7510 = “Prohibiting scavenging and providing penalty for violation thereof”;

• Ordinance No. 7695 = “Prohibiting disposal of garbage/trash/rubbish and refuse in open uncovered or unsealed

container”;

• Ordinance No. 7849 = “Amending section 4 of Ordinance 7695 referring to disposal of garbage by providing a higher penalty for violation thereof”;

• Ordinance No. 7853 = “Requiring garbage receptacles in all public utility vehicles in the City of Manila and amending/repealing for the purpose of Ordinance 6747 and 7436”;

• Ordinance No. 7866 = “Penalizing the disposal of garbage, debris and other waste materials in rivers, creeks, canals and waterways allocating to the barangays 20% of the fine collected therefrom and for other purposes”;

• Ordinance No. 7876 = “Requiring all residents of and business establishments within the City of Manila to provide their homes and establishments with containers with which segregate bio and non-biodegradable garbage for composting and recycling”;

• Ordinance No. 7924 = “Prohibiting the dumping and discharging of garbage, refuse, sewer waste, debris, toxic waste and other pollutants from vessels, factories, commercial and industrial establishments, residential houses and other structures into the Manila Bay, Pasig River and other bodies of water within the territorial jurisdiction of the City of Manila”;

• Ordinance No. 8194 = “Amending section 3 of Ordinance 7404 – An ordinance governing solid waste disposal practices including prohibition of open dumping in vacant lots, properties in esteros and other water courses”;

• Ordinance No. 7444 = “Regulating and controlling the discharge of industrial and other wastes into the atmospheric air and body of water within the territorial limits for the purpose of abatement and prevention of pollution”;

• Ordinance No. 8107 = “Instituting a Water Code for the City of Manila to govern the management, utilization, development, conservation and protection of the municipal waters of the city, creating for the purpose the Manila Water Management Office, appropriating the amount needed therefore, and for other purposes”;

• Ordinance No. 2411 Section 1127 = “Encroachments, Conditions of. No street shall be permanently encroached upon, except as otherwise expressly provided by ordinance. Permit for the temporary occupancy of such public property is included in the permit for the building”;

• Ordinance No. 2411 Section 1157 = “Erecting Obstruction.

INTER-AGENCY SEMINAR-WORKSHOP ON ENFORCEMENT AND PARALEGAL TRAINING FOR ESTERO DE PACO AND ESTERO DE SANTIBANEZ

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It shall be unlawful to place or erect any post, fence, stand building, or other obstruction, in whole or in part, upon a street, sidewalk, or public way, or to obstruct any street, drain, or gutter, without first obtaining a permit therefore from the City Engineer (R.O. 1048)”;

• Ordinance No. 7093 = An ordinance amending section 2, 3 and 4 of Ordinance 6510 which declares a nuisance the obstruction in any street by any motor vehicle that breaks down by reason of mechanical or engine defect”.

After the lecture proper, a workshop followed wherein all the barangay officials are unified in the creation of a “Task Force on Legal Easement and Ordinances relating to R.A. 9003”. Initially, the composition of the task force includes CEO and DPS of the City of Manila, MMDA, DILG and DENR-NSWMC.

Another meeting will be conducted to finalize the composition of the said task force. Boots B. Nicolas, PRRC

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Adviser for Office of the City Mayor manila Attorney Donna Sasgonia discusses Manila’s ordinances on solid waste and waste water managment . Photo by Garry Ignacio, PRRC

Kapit Bisig Para sa Ilog Pasig Project Director Michael Rubio welcomes the barangay representatives from Estero de Paco and Santibañez. Photo by Garry Ignacio, PRRC

METAL-EATING PLANT FIGHTS POLLUTION

Scientists in the Philippines have discovered a plant that can absorb large amounts of metal without itself being poisoned, the species is called Rinorea niccolifera, which can be used to clean up polluted soils and harvest commercially viable metals.

The plant, also known as hyperaccumulator plant, that can absorb significant amounts of metal through their roots. The discovery was announced in a scientific paper published in an open access journal PhytoKeys. The name came from the Latin word for nickel (niccolum) and to yield or to contain (fer).

The lead researcher and author of a new study on the plant, Prof. Edwino Fernando from the University of the Philippines Los Banos (UPLB) along with Dr. Marilyn Quimado laid out the details of the discovery stating the leaves of the plant can absorb up to 18,000 parts

per million of nickel, 1,000 times more than can be safely absorbed by any other known plant.

This new species was discovered on the western part of Zambales. Being a new scientific discovery, the plant has important environmental benefits. It can remove large amounts of dangerous metallic metals from polluted ecosystems.

These type of plants can be used in the development of green technologies, like phytoextraction, phytoremediation and phytomining, concluded by Augustine Doronilla of the University of Melbourne, who co-authored the scientific study.

Excerpted from Manila Standard TodayBoots Nicolas

Photo by www.abc.net.au Photo by phys.org Photo by www.centrometeoitaliano.it


The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has called for greater public participation in environmental protection to combat climate change that aggravates the impacts of natural calamities like super typhoon Yolanda.

In its “State of the Philippine Environment” report made known during the celebration of the Earth Day, the DENR said that while progress is being made, much more needs to be done to protect the environment and mitigate the impacts of climate change.

“We have done much. But there is still much more to be done,” DENR Undersecretary Demetrio Ignacio Jr. said in a speech at the Quezon Memorial Circle in Quezon City, where the Earth Day celebration was held.

Ignacio said the government formulates various policies for environmental protection but these turn out to be successful if there is active participation by the general public.

The environment official said the threat from global warming is real and urgent, citing a recent report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate on Climate Change that if greenhouse gases continue to rise, global temperature will increase 3.5 to 4 degrees centigrade by the 21st century, double the target increase of 2 degrees centigrade.

“This has serious implications for the

Philippines considering that we are one of the most vulnerable countries on the impact of climate change,” Ignacio pointed out. “We need to strengthen our adaptation measures and contribute more to climate change mitigation.”He added: “To do these, we need to unify and redouble our efforts. We need to put in more investments. We have been successful in making our people aware of the environment. We now need to translate this high level of awareness into actions.”

In fact, Ignacio said the Philippine government – through the DENR and other concerned agencies – has recently made positive progress in environmental protection and in ensuring effective mitigation and adaptation to climate change.

He said that even prior to Yolanda, which has given the country the stark reminder of the vulnerability of its communities to extreme weather events, the DENR has already came up with measures to prevent or minimize the loss of lives and properties during disasters.

The DENR’s Mines and Geosciences Bureau has already completed the geohazard mapping of the entire Philippines at 1:50,000 scale and distributed 85,000 map sheets showing where landslides and flooding can occur at the barangay level.It is also expected to complete this year

a more detailed geohazard mapping covering all cities and municipalities at a scale of 1:10,000. The 3D version of these geohazard maps will also be out soon.

President Benigno Aquino III recently ordered the release of P1 billion for the mangrove and beach forest plantation in Yolanda-stricken areas.

Ignacio said that many deaths and destruction during Typhoon Yolanda could have been prevented if the country’s shorelines were adequately protected with trees and mangroves.

“We have already started mangrove planting in Tacloban. We will expand to cover Leyte, Samar and other areas devastated by recent typhoons, including the coastal devastations caused by the fighting in Zamboanga City,” he revealed.

Ignacio also noted how the government’s massive National Greening Program (NGP) by the end of the year would have planted trees in over a million hectares, surpassing the total area planted for the previous 23 years.

When completed by 2016, the NGP is expected to improve the country’s air quality and reduce greenhouse gases (GHG) by absorbing 38 million tons of carbon with improved forest cover from watersheds in the uplands down to the

GREATER PUBLIC PARTICIPATION IN ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION

National Greening Program (NGP) of DENR throught planting of trees.

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The Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA) joins the 1st Philippine Conference on Vetiver with the theme “The Vetiver System: A Versatile and Cost-Efficient Solution for a Sustainable Environment” held at the Grand Ballroom of the Intercontinental Manila, Makati City.

The three-day conference aims to provide an interactive venue to promote and advance the widespread adoption of the Vetiver System in the country through plenary sessions, case study presentations and workshops conducted by certified speakers from The Vetiver Network International (TVNI).

In support of the conference, Presidential Adviser for Environmental Protection and LLDA General Manager Sec. J.R. Nereus Acosta, through his representative, Ms. Melanie Arguelles, encouraged the participants to visit the LLDA booth located outside the conference room. “I look forward to knowing more about the Vetiver System and how it can be applied in the Philippine setting. For an endeavour to succeed, it must be inclusive and consultative actively engaging all stakeholders involved. Only then are we able to effectively craft viable short, medium, and long-term solutions to achieve food and water security and to mitigate the effects of natural disasters and climate change in the region”, Acosta said in his message delivered by Ms. Arguelles.

While the Vetiver System is currently used in over 100 countries, the Philippines has yet to realize its economic value and numerous

applications to climate change adaptation and mitigation measures. The decision to organize a conference was spurred by the issuance of a Department Circular from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the government agency in charge of the country’s public infrastructures, which prescribed the vetiver grass as a vegetation material for slope stabilization and soil erosion in public infrastructures.

The Vetiver System is a system of soil and water conservation whose main component is the use of vetiver plant in hedgegrows. The Vetiver system is currently used for soil and water conservation, infrastructure stabilization, pollution control,

wastewater treatment, mitigation and rehabilitation, sediment control, prevention of storm damage and many other environmental protection applications. The scientific name of Vetiver with the longest rooting system is Chrysopogon zizanioides.

Participants of the conference include environmental and policy makers, local government units, watershed managers, public infrastructure planners and managers, research institutions and academe, international development agencies, non-government organizations, private sector involved in construction, property development, mining, and farming communities. www.llda.gov.ph

mangrove forests along the coastlines.

Increasing the country’s forest cover, which at 24 percent of the land area currently ranks the second lowest in Southeast Asia, will also provide habitats for the country’s varied wildlife and provide food and water security for all.

Alongside the ecological benefits, Ignacio stated that the NGP has also employed more than 144,000 people in the upland and rural communities, and provided them with food and high value crops such as fruit trees, coffee, cacao and rubber for possible additional income through sustainable agriculture.

He added that many of the 232 protected

areas (PAs) or national parks in the country that are all part of the NGP, are also priority ecotourism sites, which are being developed together with the Department of Tourism, local government units (LGUs), the private sector and surrounding communities.

Aside from actively involving stakeholders in protecting, conserving and managing the PAs, the ecotourism sites are also possible investment sites that could provide local communities with jobs and income.Ignacio also said that the air quality in bustling Metro Manila has continued to improve, as indicated by the reduction of dust particles by 33 percent since 2011. In a bid to further clean the air, the DENR has started to expand its air quality monitoring

to include finer dust particles.

The agency is likewise promoting the use of alternative fuel and means of transportation and advocating for clean emissions to reduce pollution and carbon emissions.

At the same time, The DENR has enlisted the support of 400 corporations and local government units (LGUs) in cleaning up and rehabilitating some 250 waterways and water bodies nationwide. Aside from improving water quality and making them safer for human use, this also reduces flood risks during the rainy season.

Department of Environment & Natural Resources (DENR)

1ST PHILIPPINE CONFERENCEON VETIVER

Vertiver grass thriving Estero de Paco. Photo by Garry Ignacio,PRRC

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DPWH PUSHES FOR“NO HOMES UNDER BRIDGE”Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Rogelio L. Singson calls on the local government units (LGUs) in ensuring the protection of infrastructure facilities.

Singson said that LGUs specifically barangays are in the position to call attention of its residents, including the informal families living under bridges and on esteros.

Just recently, a fire broke out at Quiapo area involving shanties living under the Quezon Bridge forcing DPWH to limit the passing of vehicles

to up to 10 tons only as safety precaution.

Following Singson’s instruction to immediately conduct inspection on Quezon Bridge which was exposed to fire, it was noted by bridge ex-perts from Bureau of Design and National Capital Region that there were deformation/buckling on steel members located at three (3) end bays of the steel truss.

The DPWH NCR is now preparing program of work to facilitate the re-pair of damaged bridge component. www.dpwh.gov.ph

BEFORE: ISFs living under P.Casal Bridge. Photo by Garry Ignacio, PRRC AFTER: ISF no more as they were relocated to a convenient resettlement rite. Photo by Garry Ignacio, PRRC

To further ensure the safety of more informal settler families (ISFs) amidst the regular occurrence of typhoons and the risks brought about by flooding in Metro Manila, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) released a total of P9.8 billion to the National Housing Authority (NHA) for the implementation of a Housing Project that will relocate families residing in dangerous areas in the metro.

The release will support the construction of a total of 30,704 housing units by 2014 - 26,948 from off-city resettlements and 3,756 from in-city low-rise buildings (LRBs) - that would effectively transfer families currently residing along waterways such as creeks, rivers and esteros to safer and more secure locations. “With all the typhoons and weather disturbances we experienced last year, we are already too familiar with the tragic consequences of climate change - particularly the loss of life and property. This latest release will go a long way in supporting the NHA’s housing assistance to informal settler families, particularly those who have built their makeshift homes in locations that are prone to heavy flooding,” DBM Secretary Florencio “Butch” Abad said.

“In relocating these families, we are also declogging our major roads and thoroughfares, which will have a significant impact on our efforts to address the extensive flooding in several parts of Metro Manila. In a sense, it’s a win-win situation for our ISFs - who will be transferred to safer housing resettlements - and for the broader population, who can soon expect improvements in our flood control program,” he added.

Charged under the 2013 General Appropriations Act (GAA) for Budgetary Support to Government Corporations, the NHA will construct eight in-city LRBs in various government-owned lands.

The P9.8 billion funding support will also cover the implementation of off-city row housing resettlements where in-city project plans are not feasible. Out of the total target of 30,704 housing units being eyed this year, 8,084 off-city housing units from 9,882 developed lots will be completed before the year ends, the construction of which has already started and currently on-going.National Housing Authority

30,704 Homes for Metro ISFs in 2014

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At Pinagbuhatan Pasig City, the Coast Guard Sub-Station Nag-payong (CGSSN) successfully conducted the river clean-up and tree planting activities under the leadership of Commander CHRIS-TOPHER M MENIADO PCG, organized by PO1 Juan G Pagaduan Jr PCG & supported by their men and stakeholders of Pasig River with the theme…”Clean River is a Fun River” and “The Best Time to Plant a Tree is Twenty Years Ago but The Second Best Time is Now”. The said activity were also actively participated by 126th and 101st Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary Squadron, Local Government Units from Taguig City and Pasig City, Community Environment National Resources Office, Young Savers Organization, Office of the Presidential for Peace and Process, Stake Holders, Asahi Glass Corporation and Villa Gabriela.

The participants were divided into two (2) groups: the first group joined the Tree Planting activity who proceeded to the designat-ed area and each of them hand carried one of the one hundred

seventy (170) Mahogany Seedlings to be planted while the other group joined the River Clean-up drive on board four (4) aluminum boats. They were able to collect different types of waste materi-als from Pasig River and eventually loaded into the Leonel Dump Truck provided by the Local Government of Taguig City for proper disposal. One Hundred Fifty (150) volunteers collected more or less 3.2 tons of trash and recyclable marine debris within the vicinity of the mouth of Laguna de Bay. Garbage found were litters such as cigarettes butts, used tires, wood planks, plastics, diapers, sando bags, food wrappers and plastic containers.

The activities were successfully completed with positive result as manifested by the compliments from local populace. The activity was also in line with the mandate tasked by the National Gov-ernment: “The National Greening Program” pursuant to Executive Order (EO) #26. It also helped raise the awareness within the com-munity, especially among the youth on the importance of cleaner and healthy environment.

Furthermore, One Hundred Seventy (170) Mahogany Seedlings were planted around of Napindan Wet Market. These trees will surely contribute to the decrease of carbon dioxide in the air and converts them into a clean and breathable oxygen. Thereby decreasing the greenhouse effect in our environment.

As always, CGS Pasig under the operational control of Presidential Security Group was very thankful to all the volunteers who attended and shared their writs & effort in making the activity successful. As a token of their support, they will receive a certifi-cate of appreciation indicating their contribution to the environ-ment.

We at the Coast Guard Station Pasig will always be your partner in keeping our community clean. We hope you could join us with our next clean-up drive. For inquiries please contact CGS Pasig Operation Branch at telephone number 689-7892 or at cell phone number 0929-686-4261.

Pasig River Clean-up and Tree Planting Activity Along Pasig River

By PO2 Jobert A Sahagun 002794 PCG

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Environmental Management Bureau Regional Coordinators of the Adopt-an-Estero/ Water Body Program (AEWBP) converged to share experiences and success stories during the 2014 National Workshop on the AEWBP organized by the Environmental Management Bureau of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (EMB-DENR) last May 20-23, 2014 at the Waterfront Insular Hotel in Davao City.

EMB Assistant Director Eva Ocfemia highlighted the importance of the partnerships created under the Program stating that through these, there has been a “continuous cleaning up of the floating debris on esteros. There is an improved waste collection efficiency and quicker flooding subsidence, in areas where floods take days to subside”. Dr. Ocfemia was quick to stress, however, that the DENR Secretary’s challenge is to “ sustain existing partnerships and to restore the water bodies to their original state”.

For their part, the EMB Regional Coordinators of the AEWBP reported significant accomplishments under the Program. In Region 1, Task Force Bantay Kalikasan Posts have been established along the stretch of the adopted Macalong River for monitoring. Regular weekly clean-ups of the river are also held, a mini park for students has been put up, and tilapia fingerlings have been dispersed. A Bio-organic Fertilizer Plant, Sagip Abbing PET bottle collection program, and Linis Ilog drives are being done in Santiago City in Region 2 for their AEWBP. PETRON played a major part in the strategic planning and

development of comprehensive program for the rehabilitation of a kilometer stretch of the Dela Paz Norte River in Region 3. The corporation, in partnership with EMB-DENR and the local government unit (LGU), also led clean-up activities, solid waste management trainings, and supported barangay environment projects, particularly in the donation of waste bins in Dela Paz Norte.

Adopters in Region 4A focused on surface clean-up within the perimeter area, and the upstream extension of the adopted esteros. A 667-meter river embankment rehabilitation program has also been executed. Region 4B stepped up their community mobilization program, and also centered on the needs of barangays such as livelihood trainings on Green Charcoaal Production and Briquetting, and improved cooking stoves. San Jose, Occidental Mindoro, where Pandurucan River and Tubaong River are located, was granted with a half-million peso financial assistance for the establishment of a Materials Recovery Facility (MRF).

In Region 5, a kilometer of Rio Guinobatan River has been cleared of solid wastes, where approximately 6 cubic meters of wastes are removed every clean-up activity initiated by EMB Region 5 with adopter FIlminera and the LGU. Waste receptacles have also been distributed to communities along the Rio Guinobatan River, as well as construction materials (pipes, cement, steel and bowls) for the construction of toilet facilities at Brgy. Capsay, Brgy. Syndicate, and Brgy. Bangon. Best practices in Region 6 include the Public and Private support

due to the creation of the Iloilo-Batiano River Development Council; the inclusion of the orchestrated clean-up as the major activity of the 76th Iloilo City Charter Day ; and, the dredging of the Iloilo River and Dungon Creek.

A Partners’ Forum was organized in Region 7, along with quarterly clean-up and tree planting activities. In Region 8, the City Solid Waste Management Office was able to collect 1,159.7 sacks of garbage from an estimated 17,801m stretch. Waste traps and fiber boats are also maintained. The Barangay Council has passed an Ordinance on Republic Act No. 9003 (Ecological Solid Waste Management Act) where a regular collection of solid waste by the City government is ensured. In Region 9, open burning and disposal/storage of solid wastes along streets especially near the rivers/creeks are prohibited by the respective LGU-barangays covered. Community-based organizations, as well as the residents, were mobilized and made to participate during clean-ups. Information campaigns were facilitated by the academe with the active involvement of students and teachers from different schools/universities. In Region 10, Cagayan Corn Products and Nestle Philippines adopted Umalag River, and has since held river clean-up drives and has strengthened the information and education campaign on the program.

The greening of the Tagnanan Creek is among the highlights in Region 11. Over a thousand trees have been planted [1,165 (Mangium, Falcatta, Gmelina, Lauan,

National Adopt-an-Estero /Water Body Program Assessed


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Pablo Maria)], alongside the 500-meter stretch of water body cleaned. Scheduled waste collection, a quarterly synchronized clean-up, and livelihood programs (Pera sa Pinya, Eco-Market, Pera sa Reject na Saging) are in place.

Barangay Captain Ralph Abella of Barangay Vicente Hizon Sr. in Davao shared their experience in having adopting Hizon Creek, which served as a “catchment of surface run-off and wastewater from households and commercial establishments of Barangays Angliongto, Buhangin, and Cabantian”. Capt. Abella highlighted their “No Segregation, No Collection Policy”; MRF;

solid waste collection strategies which include monitoring, surprise inspections, and paid citation tickets; bayanihan clean-up drives; and livelihood programs.

In Region 12, for Silway River, Matutum Meat Packaging Corporation constructed a Slope Protection Project or Grouted Riprap on the flashflood affected area in Silway 8, Polomolok, South Cotabato. Moreover, Mahintana Foundation implemented a Riverbank and Gully Stabilization Project with the following components: Risk Mapping, Vegetation Enhancement, Flood Control Structures, Alternative Livelihood Assistance, BDRRMC Support, and an Environmental Sanitation Campaign. At least 4,488 square meters of earth-matting from used fish nets were established in five barangays. In addition, 144 Gabion cages were established in two flood-prone barangays of Polomolok covering at least 108 linear meters.

Solid waste management is in place, and the information and education campaign and community mobilization programs are strengthened in CARAGA. A Warriors of Waters Student Summit was also held, and a Drainage Canal Clean-up at the Ochoa Avenue and Resurrection Street in Butuan City conducted. Cordillera Administrative Region banked on the institutionalization

of waste segregation-at-sources in schools and government offices, the conduct of Recyclables Collection Events, and a strong community information, education and mobilization program.

At the National Capital Region, adopters March Resources Manufacturing Corporation, UDENNA, and IWDSI focused on the skimming or immediate cleaning of Lingunan and Mauling Creeks, respectively. Other interventions include an information and education campaign (house-to-house distribution of flyers), tree planting), establishment of MRF, and a Community Beautification Program.

In addition to the assessment and review of the regional implementation of the Program, the workshop also aimed to broaden the solid waste management and the advocacy dimensions of the Program through community engagements and planning sessions. The national workshop also discussed

strengths, weaknesses, recommendations for improvement, planned activities, target dates and EMB offices in charge of the following areas of the AEWBP: developing and sustaining partnerships; water sampling and monitoring; solid waste management; information, education and communication campaigns, including community mobilization; documentation and reporting; institutional set-up through the EMB Regional AEWBP Inter-office Team; institutionalization through the River Management Councils or their equivalents; other programs (such as greening, engineering improvements, livelihood and enterprise development); and the priority next steps.

To date, there are 550 Memoranda of Agreements (MOAs) signed and 309 water bodies adopted all over the country, under a collaborative undertaking between and among the estero communities, donor-partners, LGUs, schools, civil society, the DENR and other national and regional government agencies. The said program aims to build partnerships among concerned sectors and organizations to restore the healthy state of waterways in the country, and safeguard the well-being of its residents. It is also a direct response to the continuing mandamus ordered by the Supreme Court for agencies, including the DENR, to clean up the Manila Bay.

For more information on the Adopt-an-Estero/Water Body Program, please contact the Water Quality Management Section at 9202273 or 9281214, or the Environmental Education and Information Division at 9284674 of the EMB Central Office.


From year 2002 to year 2008, before the existence of the mandamus order of the honourable Supreme Court, the City of Pasig has shown its political will by removing illegal structures and encroachments within the legal easements of the Pasig River, the Napindan River, the Marikina River and various creeks within the territorial jurisdiction of Pasig City.

After the successful removal of illegal structures and the relocation of more than 2,000 Informal Settler Families (ISFs) from Barangays Pineda and Bagong Ilog, the only two barangays of the city situated along the Pasig River and the putting up of revetment wall and linear park, the City Government next cleared the Napindan River of informal settlements and likewise constructed revetment walls and linear parks in the recovered river easements of the eight barangays situated thereat. Hundreds of millions of pesos out of its own funds were utilized by the City Government for the construction of these infrastructure and flood control projects.

The City of Pasig now commits to recover the easements of Marikina River. At present a total of 1,176 ISFs from the ten (10) barangays of the city along the Marikina River have been saved and relocated by the City Government to its in-city and near-city housing projects. Linear parks now occupy the recovered easements, other areas are fenced off while waiting for the implementation of the PMRCIP III & IV of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

With sincere and unwavering commitment to help in the clean-up of the Manila Bay and the rehabilitation of all the waterways in the city, the City Government has now started putting up revetment walls and linear parks within the recovered 30 meter easement and accretion of Marikina River in Barangay Santolan. The 1st phase of the project amounting to P113 million is now nearing completion, while the final phase is now in the pipeline. To make the water of Marikina River flowing to its previous velocity and capacity, the City Government has started the dredging works ahead of the

dredging project of the DPWH.

The city will soon be repairing the three (3) Ferry Stations along Marikina River situated in Barangays Kapasigan, Maybunga and Rosario to encourage boat operators to service the route once the dredging works make the river passable to the ferry boats.

As part of the “Green City Program” of the City Government, after all the easement recovery and engineering intervention works have been completed, the city will plant bamboos and other plants along these waterways to prevent new entrants and illegal structures.

The City of Pasig calls on the DILG, MMDA, DPWH and other stakeholders to support its Green City Program and to work together to attain the very purpose of the ongoing mandamus order of the honourable Supreme Court. One direction towards a green and healthy future! Josenar F. Caparas, Pasig City Housing and Special Projects Office

Pasig City’s One Direction Towards a

“GREEN CITY”

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The Department of Environment and Natural Resources - National Capital Region (DENR-NCR) became East Zone concessionaire Manila Water’s newest partner for its Toka Toka” program, the only environmental movement in the Philippines focused on used water management.

Manila Water East Zone Business Operations Group Director Ferdinand Dela Cruz was very excited to begin the partnership with DENR-NCR as the advocacy marks a new beginning for everyone to commit to environmental sustainability. “This is a further testament to the mounting support that Manila Water gets not only from the private sector but also from government agencies,” Dela Cruz said, underscoring the need to do something for the environment, especially in the area of used water management.

With the DENR-NCR as its latest partner, Dela Cruz said Manila Water expecting more local government units and private companies to join the Toka Toka bandwagon to create a bigger impact in reviving our polluted river systems.

The signing of the Toka Toka Partnership

Seal between Manila Water and DENR-NCR was attended by DENR officials headed by NCR Regional Director Lourdes Wagan together with DENR -Land Management Services OIC Regional Technical Director Arturo Fadriquela and EMB NCR Regional Director Vizminda Osorio.

DENR-EMB NCR is one of the Toka Toka’s first partners in 2012 with the agency consistently promoting the program in its

engagements with stakeholders.

Under the agreement, the DENR -NCR committed to include Toka Toka Information Education Campaign at the monthly events of the Protected Area, Wildlife and Coastal Zones Management Sector-Manila Bay Coordinating Office (PAWCZMS-MBCO).

The agency also committed to implement a series of Toka Toka lectures for public and private schools and “Tsikahan sa Baranggay” to inform and educate residents at the grassroots level.

Toka Toka has four “ownable” acts where an individual or institution can contribute as his or its “toka” (share) namely: proper disposal of garbage; desludging of septic tanks; connecting to Manila Water’s sewer network; and supporting the company’s community-based sanitation and used-water projects.

The program’s ultimate goal is to ensure cleaner and safer rivers in Metro Manila, particularly the Marikina, Pasig and San Juan rivers.Manila Water

DENR-NCR is Manila Water’s newest Toka Toka partner

Photo shows Manila Water East Zone Business Operations Group Director Ferdinand Dela Cruz (rightmost) joined by EMB NCR Regional Director Vizminda Osorio (middle) together with DENR NCR Regional Director Lourdes Wagan at the recently-held Toka Toka partnership seal signing.

Several government agencies which included the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) joined the Toka Toka movement, Manila Water’s environmental campaign focused solely on reviving Metro Manila’s heavily polluted rivers and waterways for the inter-agency clean-up of Maricaban Creek in Pasay City.

Manila Water East Zone Business Operations Group Director Ferdinand Dela Cruz said the company’s participation in the clean-up drive is part of its commitment to pioneer efforts in addressing the moribund state of the river systems in Metro Manila.

Now on its third year, “Toka Toka” was primarily created with the objective of informing, educating and communicating to the general public the importance of managing and treating used water to abate the adverse effects on water bodies particularly the three river systems of Marikina, Pasig, and San Juan.

“We are truly grateful that MMDA, DILG and DPWH have partnered with us in this Toka Toka movement. We cannot do this (river clean-up) alone as we have always believed that everyone should really take part and do his share in protecting our environment to create a bigger impact,”

Dela Cruz said.

Maricaban Creek is among the 15 rivers and creeks that the MMDA, DPWH and the DILG have jointly committed to clean-up before the start of the rainy season to prevent flooding especially in the low-lying areas of Metro Manila.

Manila Water is the east concessionaire of the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System that provides water and used water services to more than 6.3 million residents of parts of Quezon City and Manila, Marikina, Pasig, San Juan, Mandaluyong, Pateros, Makati, Taguig and several towns in Rizal Province. Manila Water

Gov’t agencies join Manila Water’s Toka Toka campaign

Toka Toka in Action. Photo shows Metropolitan Manila Development Authority Undersecretary and General Manager Corazon Jimenez (third from left), Department of Public Works and Highway NCR Maintenance – Assistant Division Chief Engr. Eduardo Santos (third from right) and Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) represented by NCR Focal Person for the Manila Bay Task Force Erwin Egamino (first from right), together with Manila Water Group Directors, Ferdinand Dela Cruz (second from right) heading the East Zone Business Operations and Corporate Strategic Affairs, Abelardo Basilio for Strategic Asset Management (second from left) and Thomas Mattison (leftmost) for Project Delivery, during the inter-agency clean-up of Maricaban Creek in Pasay City. This is one of the “Toka Toka” projects committed by the four agencies in support of the Supreme Court Mandamus to clean, rehabilitate and preserve the Manila Bay. Photo by Manila Water

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For environment-friendly individuals and nature lovers, the following attractions are highly-recommended to remind everyone on the importance of how to take care of our ecosystem in particular, and environment in general.

TUKURAN FALLSPINAMALAYAN, ORIENTAL MINDORO

Tukuran Falls is a hidden paradise tucked in the deepest part of the jungle. To reach the fairly small waterfall, there are two choices: trekking or buffalo cart. Whatever choice you will make, you will pass through freshwater rivers approximately six times, as well as thousands of tall coconut trees. There are tropical fruits along the way such as lanzones, durian, caimito and duhat. Don’t be surprise if you encounter native Mangyans along the way as they sell their harvests to the lowlanders.

Upon reaching Tukuran Falls, take a deep breath and savor the

beauty of nature around. Depending on the amount of rainfall and localized climate, the waterfalls may be a raging torrent or may be a trickle drop. Further up the river, you’ll find rapids that are really exciting to float through.

When you’re done, walk back out the way you came in. Reminisced the amazing serenity of the falls, like you’re stepping back in time.

MAESTRE DE CAMPOSIBALE ISLAND, CONCEPCION, ROMBLON

Maestre de Campo is a diminutive island in the northwest portion of Romblon Province, approximately 20 miles east from Pinamalayan, Oriental Mindoro. Geographically speaking, the island was once a volcano but to date nowhere you will find evidence of volcanic eruptions that happened in the distant past. The island is frequently called as Maestro de Campo which is a misnomer. Maestro de

GrEEN I N I T I AT I V E

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Campo refers to “Teacher of the Camp”, whereas Maestre de Campo is “Master of the Camp”. This island is popularly known as Sibale Island, which came from the Spanish word “si belleza” which means ‘yes! Beauty’.

The island comprises the sole municipality of Concepcion, Romblon which has nine barangays. The island is mountainous and relies heavily on coconut products, fishing and a small tourism industry as a means of livelihood.

Tourists, local and foreign, come to Maestre de Campo for its marvelously crystal clear water that surrounds the island and bountiful coral reefs. Hiking the forest trails (Concepcion Forest Park) is popular specially after reaching the grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes. Paddling around the serene waters while watching tortoises swim and observing the fauna of the mangrove forests are the other exciting ventures that tourist can be an awe with.

Maestre de Campo has several recognized dive sites (including two enormous ship

wrecks) and has a vast shoreline that offers superb snorkelling experiences. A wide array of migratory and indigenous birds frequented the island. Turtles and tortoises nest on some of the shores. The locals are peaceful, friendly, hospitable and delighted to share their culinary dishes to their visitors.

Over a long time, the deep-sheltered and enclosed harbour of the island has offered refuge to thousands of maritime vessels for the island is considered typhoon safe haven that can accommodate large number of ships.

To get to Maestre de Campo or Sibale Island, one must first get to Pinamalayan, Oriental Mindoro. To get to Pinamalayan: from Manila take a bus going to Batangas port, which takes about 2 hours; upon reaching Batangas port, take a roro to Calapan City which is about 1 ½ hours; then from Calapan City to Pinamalayan will take 2 hours via land transportation; from the port in Pinamalayan to Maestre de Campo will take 2 ½ hours by boat ride.

If you want to go island hopping, then asking a local to take you and to be your guide is a good choice.

SILONAY MANGROVE CONSERVATION AND

ECO-TOURISM PARKCalapan, Oriental MindoroThe Silonay Mangrove Conservation and Eco-Tourism Park is an ecosystem based adaptation project under the partnership of the local governments of Calapan City and the Province of Oriental Mindoro Samahang Nagkakaisang Pamayanan ng Silonay and the US-based Conservation International Philippines which involves reforestation to protect village dwellers from storm surges, rise in sea level and coastal erosion.

Conservation International came and helped fund the development of the 42-hectare park which has a 300-meter boardwalk for tourists and birdwatchers.

Visitors to the mangrove park are required to plant mangrove seedlings as part and parcel of developing an affinity to the community and to further enrich the wetland ecosystem. In addition to, people could do close to nature activities such as kayaking, fishing and bird-watching which are all operated by the Silonay group who is also engaged in the production of souvenirs and snack items for tourists.

The density of the mangrove forest have made it a sanctuary for fowls and birds. Among these are Asian glossy starling, black-naped oriole, clamorous reed warbler, Oriental magpie robin, Philippine nightjar, chestnut munia, golden bellied gerrygone, pied triller and white-collared kingfisher.

Also found in the area rare wildlife species such as long-tongued nectar bat, musky fruit bat and kaloula picta frog, as well as various mangroves like River Poison Tree, Asiatic, Apple, Tall-Silted, Black Mangroves and Holly-Leaved Acanthus.

The said mangrove colony helps enhance the marine biodiversity of Oriental Mindoro by providing a spawning ground of fishes and other aquatic organisms.

These three environmentallt significant green locations are the primary and living testimonies that there are a lot of paradise locations that our fellowmen in the urban areas should emulate. Boots B. Nicolas, PRRC

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EFFECTIVE NON-VERBAL COMMUNICATION:A CONVEYANCE OF SYMBOLIC EXPRESSION

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Non-verbal communication is the manner of communication through sending and receiving visual cues among people. Sometimes it is referred to as body language, use of voice, touch, distance, physical environments, appearance, informal space around the body, the use of time and eye contact.

Furthermore, the study of non-verbal communication focused more on the interaction between and among individuals, which can be categorized into three main areas such as: environmental conditions where communication takes place, physical characteristics of the communicators and behaviors of communicators during the interaction.

In addition to, non-verbal communication involves the system of encoding and decoding. Encoding is the act of getting the information, whereas, decoding is the interpretation of the information from sensations of previous experiences.

Non-verbal communication can portray a message verbally and with the correct body signs. These bodily signs comprise physical features, conscious and unconscious gestures and mediation of personal space. The wrong message can be instituted if the body language conveyed does not match a verbal message.

To further understand this, the following are categories of non-verbal symbols for everyday reference.

• BODY LANGUAGE – Body positioning or bodily stance by individuals conveys a variety of messages whether positive or negative. Such posture can be used to determine the degree of attention or involvement, the difference of status of communicators, and the extent of fondness a person has for the other communicator. A person who displays a forward lean or decreases a backward lean also signifies positive sentiment during communication.

• VOCALICS – is the study of the non-verbal uses of the voice that indicate emotion and provide cues as to how the message should be interpreted. It is otherwise known as paralanguage including voice quality, rate, pitch, volume, speaking style, rhythm, intonation, and stress.

“I didn’t SAY you were pretty!

“I didn’t say YOU were pretty!

“I didn’t say you were PRETTY!

Raising your pitch or tone to emphasize a word. This changes the meaning of the sentence.

• ARTIFACTICS – The study of clothing is one of the most common forms of non-verbal communication. The kind of clothing that a person wears conveys non-verbal clues about his personality, background and financial status. A person’s style of clothing can demonstrate their culture, mood, level of confidence, interest, age, authority, values, beliefs and sexual identity. At the same time, clothing can communicate what nationality an individual or group is, for instance, Japanese wear kimonos, Scots wear kilts and Indian men wear turbans.

Furthermore, clothing can be used as a form of self-expression in which a person can exhibit their power, wealth, sex appeal, creativity and levels of sexual hormones.

• KINESICS – was first used in 1952 by an anthropologist that studied how people communicate through posture, gesture, stance and movement. Kinesic messages comprise the posture, gaze and facial movements.

Drawing finger across your throat.

Time is up! I’m going to cut his throat!

Hand gesture

It’s okay. Victory or peace.

Smiling

• OCULESICS – is a communication through the use of eyes and eye movements. Eye contact or mutual gaze is another form of non-verbal communication. The duration of eye contact is its most meaningful aspect. The length of the gaze, the frequency of glances, patterns of fixation, pupil dilation and blink rate are all significant cues in non-verbal communication.

Wink Raised eyebrow Eavesdropping

• PROXEMICS – is a communication through the use of space and distance. Every person has a particular space that they keep to themselves when communicating. There are four types of proxemics:

Intimate distance – is being used

for close encounters like embracing, touching, or whispering;

Personal distance – is used for interactions with close friends and family members;

Social distance – is an interaction among acquaintances where there is no physical contact;

Public distance – is for strangers or public speaking.

• HAPTICS – is a communication through the use of the sense of touch or on how people and other animals communicate via touching. Touch is the earliest sense to develop in fetus. Infants who can perceive through touch, tend to fare much better.Touching among humans includes:

Kissing Slap Handshake Holding hands Wrap arms Back slapping High Fives Pat on the shoulder

• CHRONEMICS – is a communication through the use of time as an important non-verbal sign

Executive keeping time Calling off of meeting

• OBJECTICS – is a communication through the use of physical objects

Wedding ring (signifies being married) Badge (symbolizes being a police officer)

Stethoscope (symbolizes being a medical practitioner)

Briefcase (symbolizes being a company executive) So next time if you communicate and convey messages, and be the recipient of the same, be sure to take note and be wary of the expressions and gestures that you will act upon… Boots B. Nicolas, PRRC


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Under Sec. 4 of R.A. 6713 otherwise known as “The Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees”, all government officials shall at all times accountable to the people and shall discharge their duties namely:

1. Commit to public interest – must uphold public interest over and above personal interest. All government resources/funds must be used honestly, economically and avoid wastage of public funds.

2. Professionalism – must perform and discharge duties with the highest degree of excellence, professionalism, intelligence and skill.

3. Justness and sincerity - shall not discriminate against anyone, especially the poor and the underprivileged; respect the rights of others, and shall refrain from doing acts contrary to law, good morals, good customs, public policy, public order, public safety and public interest.

4. Political Neutrality- must provide service to everyone without unfair discrimination and regardless of party affiliation or preference.

5. Responsiveness to the public - shall extend prompt, courteous, and adequate service to the public.

6. Nationalism and patriotism - shall at all times be loyal to the Republic and to the Filipino people, promote the use of locally produced goods, resources and technology and encourage appreciation and pride of country and people.

7. Commitment to democracy - shall at all times uphold the Constitution and put loyalty to country above

loyalty to persons or party.

8. Simple living - shall lead modest lives appropriate to their positions and income. They shall not indulge in extravagant or ostentatious display of wealth in any form.

SELF- REFLECTIONSWhat follows are random thoughts and personal reflection in the context of working in PRRC over the last seven years. These lessons, I learned in the office, are teaching me a lot in my personal life and in my work.

The realization that improving Pasig River’s water quality requires a multi-faceted approach has translated on how I view and conduct my work and responsibilities. The leadership changes in the office that I have experienced have taught me a lot. That each change in leadership brings about new strategies and new ways of looking at things. That being exposed to different leadership qualities is very instructive. As most of us would put it, different folks different strokes. Some issues can be muddled by differences in arguments but I learned that listening well, standing by my principles, giving my full loyalty, giving more of myself

—and, in most times, admitting the wrongs that I have caused—can dissipate a lot of tensions.

From the contexts and experiences I have been exposed to, I think the whole process of managing Pasig River does not have an end point; it’s a cycle. And it should be a learning process. Areas change, presidents and other top management come and go, demographics change, the values and assumptions of people change—sometimes the change is very slow, at other times it’s very abrupt and disruptive, like in disasters; just like what happened in Ondoy. These changes need to inform each policy cycle of Pasig River management. Thus, each element in its management system—its process and tools—is expected also to change. But each cycle must improve the next one. It’s actually a pursuit of continuing improvement towards sustainable development.

I think that this belief must become a guiding principle in my own life. The belief of continuing improvement must translate to a firm commitment to be-come a better person and account-able to God. Merliza S. Bonga, PRRC Environmental Management Division

Promotion of Truth, Service and Common Good for the People


Community organizing is widely recognized as an honourable vocation. But what do estero managers do as community organizers? The brief answer is that they get people to work together to solve their own problems and change the community for the better.

Some liken the role of an estero manager to that of the coach of a basketball team, in that it is the organizer’s job to get other people to take the lead. Others say that they build community with a purpose. Still others define it as someone who “builds a group of people or institutions to address a common problem through collective action”.

Estero managers build organizations that maximize the power and participation of their members. Their role is to see that the people and structures are in place to create coherence and integrity within an organization. They are responsible for expanding the membership base, maintaining a focus on action, and preserving democratic, participatory structures and processes.

Estero managers listen to their members, who know the community, and let people go at their own pace while also helping them develop the self-confidence to try new things.

Estero managers are responsible for sharing information and raising questions, options, alternatives and problems that affect the collective power the group can wield.

Estero managers work with, not for, the community. They do their fair share of the work, while also striving never to do for others what they can do for themselves.

Estero managers identify and develop a diverse group in the community who agree to serve as the organization’s voice on a variety of issues. Empowered individuals speak for themselves.

Estero managers are attuned to the power relationships and political agendas surrounding an issue. A well-informed estero manager should be able to analyse the social, political and economic forces that shapes the community in particular, and the country in general. They develop sound organizing strategies based on this power analysis.

Estero managers develop leaders. They seek to discover the skills, talents and interests of current and potential leaders, and encourage shared leadership. They believe that everyone has the potential to lead if given the opportunity.

An organizer’s role is to build public relationships. This relationship is based on the general needs of civic and community life. The main instrument for building such relationships is a face to face conversation. The purpose of one-on-one conversation is to build relationships and trust, discover self-interests, identify skills and talents, and move people to involvement.

Another role is to work with people to define problems and issues, and help them think through the strategies and tactics necessary to act with confidence and win.

One of the primary tools of estero manager is an effective meeting. They should hold meetings that are productive and focused. They facilitate training and strategy sessions when needed to help the community learn the skills they need and build evaluations

into all aspects of their work.

Estero managers strive to be accountable and hold others accountable in every aspect of their job. Accountability means people can count on one another to keep commitments and agreements. They create a culture that encourages people to commit only to things they can really do, and to know they are accountable for their actions.

Majority of community organizing is follow-up. Follow-up means both keeping in touch with people to get their jobs done, and planning for the fact that a few people won’t be able to complete their tasks. Estero managers always make time for follow-up.

Finally, an estero manager strives to reflect on and improve their skills on an on-going basis and develop a self-development plan. Boots B. Nicolas, PRRC

HOW TO UNDERSTAND THE ROLE OF AN “ESTERO MANAGER” AS A COMMUNITY ORGANIZER

Community Organizer Jeremiah Anne Galvez facilitates a workshop for the youth on the barangay along the esteros. Photo by Gloria Niñofranco,PRRC

Community Organizer Elizabeth Mandap interact with the kids of Estero de Pandacan. Photo by Sofia Macaraja,PRRC

Community Organizer Arturo Bacquizal leads the Ecological Solid Waste Management. Photo by Gloria Niñofranco,PRRC

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Vetiver grass - Chrysopogon zizanioides - is a tropical clump grass with origin in south India. It has the ability, when planted close together in a line, to create a near perfect barrier that filters out sediment, spreads rainwater, improves the shear strength of soil, and recycles soil nutrients. Vetiver has a wide range of applications, and the common domesticated cultivars used around the world are non-invasive. The plant will virtually grow anywhere except where the winter temperatures result in perma-frost and summers are too mild. Thus, it main areas of growth are in the tropics and semi tropics, Mediterranean climates, and in arid regions (when there is available supplementary water). Its primary uses are for soil and water conservation, soil fertility enhancement, bio-engineeering, phytoremediation of contaminated land and water, disaster mitigation, and a bi product supply for forage, fuel, handicrafts, and perfumary. It also sequesters significant quantities of atmospheric carbon.

In Thailand, vetiver grass can be found growing in a wide range of area from highlands to lowlands in various soil conditions. The species which is most common in Thailand is referred to in scientific term as Vetiveria zizanioides. This species appears in a dense clump and grows fast through tillering. The clump diameter is about 30 cm. and the height is 50-150 cm. The leaves are erect and rather stiff with 75 cm. of length and 8 mm. of width. If planted along contours across the slope, the clump which stands above the ground will produce tillers, forming a green hedge. This thus makes it capable of trapping crop residues and silts which are eroded by runoff and enabling them to naturally form an earth embankment. Since vetiver grass has a deep thick root system which spreads vertically rather than horizontally, it can efficiently endure harsh conditions. The roots densely bind together like an underground curtain or wall enabling it to store water and moisture. However, since the root system expands sideway up to only 50 cm., it imposes no obstacle to the nearby plants and is thus considered an effective measure for soil and water conservation. Vetiver hedgerows maintain soil moisture and soil surface and at the

same time, are suitable for cultivating along with economic crops. Growing vetiver grass is simple, applicable and money-saving. The practice can lead to the strengthening and sustainability of the farming system in rainfed areas and can be applied in other areas for preservation and conservation of natural resources such as along the banks of the irrigation canals, reservoirs or ponds along the road shoulders and the approach of a bridge, as well

What are the Uses of Vetiver Grass? We can make use of every part of vetiver grass as follows:

Culm / Leaf• trapping crop residues and silts eroded by runoff• roof thatching• as raw material for making paper• making ropes, mats, hats, baskets etc.• as animal fodder for sheep, cattle etc.• mulching, covering the ground of animal stables• as planting material for mushroom culture and for making compost• others

Roots• absorbing water and maintaining soil moisture• absorbing minerals and nutrients/decomposing as organic matters, thus making the soil friable• absorbing toxic substances in chemical fertilizers and pesticides• improving the physical elements of the soil• making screens, blinds, fans, handbags• making herbs and skin care substances•extracting volatile oils for making perfume and aromatic ingredients in soaps• as insect and rodent repellents• others

Several aspects of vetiver make it an excellent erosion control plant in warmer climates. Unlike most grasses, it does not form a horizontal mat of roots; rather, the roots grow almost exclusively downward, 2–4 m, which is deeper than some tree roots. This makes vetiver an excellent stabilizing hedge for stream banks, terraces, and rice paddies, and protects soil from sheet erosion. The roots bind to the soil, therefore it cannot dislodge. Vetiver has also been used to stabilize railway cuttings/embankments in geologically challenging situations in an attempt to prevent mudslides and rockfalls. The plant also penetrates and loosens compacted soils.

The Vetiver system, a technology of soil conservation and water quality management, is based on the use of the vetiver plant.

(www.vetiver.org) Boots B. Nicolas, PRRC

What is VETIVER GRASS?

A member of the PRRC River Patrol regularly inspects vetiver grass that thrives in the esteros. Photo by Garry Ignacio,PRRC

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“Through prayers, one could strengthen our relationship with the Divine Providence, by brotherhood we could fortify our relationship with our fellowmen, and through apostolate we could show concern for others by practicing charitable actions”, thus perennially

uttered by outgoing Deputy Executive Director (DED) for Finance and Administration Simon I. Aguilon everytime he set forth on stage to give inspiring remarks in front of

PRRC administration and personnel.

The mild-mannered DED, who hails from Bauan, Batangas, was born on October 28, 1955. He finished Bachelor of Science in Commerce

major in Accounting at Manuel L. Quezon University (MLQU) in 1984 and successfully hurdled the Board Examination for Certified Public Accountants the following year. He was also conferred Master in Business Administration (MBA) by the International Academy of Management and Economics (IAME) in 2002.

Sir Simon’s entire career was devoted to government service. While studying, he worked as an Accounting Clerk and Cash Clerk at the Office of the Municipal Treasurer in Bongabong Oriental Mindoro from January 1979 – April 1981. But much of his career was consecrated in the Bureau of Treasury where he first served as an Accounting Clerk II in 1981; Accounting Clerk III from 1981 – 1984; Supervising Accounting Clerk from 1984 – 1985; Accountant I in 1985; Accountant II from 1985 – 1988; Chief Accountant IV from 1988 – 1989; Accountant III from 1989 – 1991; Supervising Financial Management Specialist from 1991 – 1993; Chief Financial Management Specialist from 1993 – 1999; and Chief Treasury Operations Officer II from 1999 – 2004.

He occupied the position of Deputy Executive Director III for Finance and Administration at the Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission (PRRC) from 2004 until his early retirement in mid 2014 that culminated his 35 years in the public service.

Sir Simon’s career at PRRC was highlighted by the following:• Changes in accounting and auditing rules using the New Government Accounting System;• Establishment of Provident Fund that will cater to PRRC employees; and• Innovations in the rules and policies of accounting and finance

Regarded as the “Apostolic Public Servant”, Sir Simon was raised by his parents as a devout Catholic faithful. He made a covenant with the Lord when he was made to replaced his father-in-law to be one of the apostles of Jesus Christ in the washing of the feet during the Holy Week of 1987. From thereon, he continued his apostolate and later became a lay minister in 1991 until now.

PRRC family will surely miss Sir Simon. His wits and jokes during flag ceremonies, his punch lines for every funny stories and his biblical passages will forever

be imbedded in the hearts and minds of his colleagues in the service.

Bidding farewell, Sir Simon enunciated “Even though we’re apart or together, we’ll always be brothers and sisters forever.”

Boots B. Nicolas, PRRC

SIMON I. AGUILONLEAVING A LEGACY OF APOSTOLIC PUBLIC SERVICE

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32Ilog Natin

Easement Recovery and Housing Resettlement (ERHR) Division Officer Ronald Reyes guides the relocatees from Barangay Katipunan in Quezon City during a preemptive evacuation activity at San Francisco River on May 28, 2014.

Escolta Commercial Association, Inc. (ECAI) together with PRRC representatives in a photo opportunity after the clean-up drive at Estero dela Reina in Manila.

Environmental Management Officer Neil Alqueza (in green) together with the River Warriors participate in the waste segregation exercise during the Waste Analysis and Characterization Study (WACS) Seminar conducted in partnership with Kapit Bisig Para sa Ilog Pasig and Asian Development Bank on July 8, 2014 at the La Mesa Eco Park.

PIAT Committee Chair MMDA GM Corazon Jimenez leads the prayer between stations during the Visita Iglesia conducted alongside the trial run of the Pasig River Bus Ferries.

PRRC representatives; Executive Director Ronald Naguit, Ferry Operations Manager Morena Oca, PIAT Division Head Amelita Gamay greet MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino during the launch of the re-operation of the Pasig River Ferry. The re-operation of the Pasig River Ferry was spearheaded by Chairman Tolentino to promote the Pasig River Ferry as an alternative mode of transportation amidst the road traffic congestion. The management of the Pasig River Ferry is under the tripartite partnership between the MMDA, PRRC, and DOTC.

June 26-27, 2014 – Participants of the Gender and Sensitivity Seminar Architect Nelia De Castro, Noel Mirallosa and Chief Administrative Officer Lolita Historillo discuss plans for the PRRC- Project Management Office to adhere with the Gender and Development (GAD) Program of the Civil Service Commission.


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PAHALANG

1 tosang8 Administrative Division9 P _ _ _ : information, ad-vocacy & tourism10 Engr. Francisco Vargas Jr.11 overtime12 informal settler families union13 simbolo kemikal ng magnesium15 RO sa MIMAROPA18 kataga21 katulad ng 8 pahalang22 simbolong musical23 Bakawan Conservation Park sa Mindoro24 Office of the Executive Secretary

PABABA

1 estero sa Maynila2 gabay ng bangka3 katulad ng 21 pahalang4 tagong talon sa Pina-malayan Mindoro5 c _ _ e _: Ingles sa estero6 Laguna Lake7 M_ _ _ _ _ _ _: estero sa San Juan-Mandaluyong14 PRRC Chair Gina Lopez16 official development assistance17 D _ _ _: Kagawaran ng Paggawa19 informal settlers20 katulad ng 14 pababa

LINEAR PARKSDREDGING

PHYTOREMEDIATIONADVOCACY

DESILTINGTOURISM

RIPRAPINGHOUSING

BIOREMEDIATIONINFORMATION

GREENINGVETIVER

Ang mga sumusunod na salita ay mga programa, plano at aktibidad ng Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission. Bilugan ang mga sumusunod na salita na makikita sa loob ng parihaba. Maaaring ito’y pahalang, pababa, pabalik o pahilis.

BioremediationBokashiHavanaMabuhay BallsFerryLambinganEsteroIlog PasigAvilesVargas

*Answers will be revealed in the next issue

*These are the answers in the last issue.

SIPATIN ang mga SALITA


Noong sinaunang panahon, may mag-asawang naninirahan sa tabi ng ilog. Sila ay nabiyayaan ng isang anak na babae.

Tahimik at hindi palakibo ang bata. Paz ang ipinangalan sa kanya. Dahil malayo sa paaralan ang kanilang kabahayan ay hindi na nakapag-aral si Paz. Gayunman ay hindi ito nagging sagabal upang lumabas ang katalinuhan ni Paz. Mahilig magbasa ng mga aklat si Paz at ang kanyang mga magulang ang nagging guro niya.

Lumaking isang maganda at marikit na dalaga si Paz. Maraming kalalakihan ang nangiming manligaw sa kanya. Isa na rito si Serafin, isang Kastilang binata. Hanggang ligaw-tingin lang ang lalaki.

Isang hapon, nagtatampisaw si Paz sa tabing-ilog ng may isang lalaking naglakas-loob na magpakilala sa kanya.

“Magandang hapon, magandang Binibini. Nais ko sanang makipagkilala sa iyo. Ako si Gerardo, isang taga-Maynila,” pagpapakilala ng lalaki.

“Bakit naman hindi?” ang sagot ni Paz. “Ako nga pala si Paz. Mutya ng Ilog Pasig ang tawag nila sa akin dito.”

Dahil likas na masayahin at palabiro ang binata ay mabilis silang nagkasundo at nagkapalagayan ng loob. Ipinakilala ni Paz ang binata sa mga magulang at agad namang humanga ang mga

ito sa binata.

Minsan ay naisipang mamangka ng magkasintahan. Lingid sa kanilang kaalaman ay naroon ang nagmamasid na si Serafin. Sumunod ito sa kanila.

Matindi ang selos ng binatang Kastila kay Gerardo. Napilitan itong sumakay rin ng bangka para masundan ang magkasintahan.

Hindi marunong sumagwan ng bangka si Serafin kaya nagpagewang-gewang ang bangka nito. Tuluyang tumaob ang bangka ng binata at nahulog ang lalaki sa tubig. Binalot ng takot si Serafin. Paano ay hindi siya marunong lumangoy. Nagsisisigaw ang binatang Kastila na humihingi ng tulong sa magkatipan.

May kalayuan na ang bangka nina Paz at Gerardo kaya hindi agad natulungan si Serafin. Huli na ang lahat bago pa ito malapitan ni Gerardo.

“Paz sigue me! Paz si…” ang huling salitang namutawi sa mga labi ng Kastila.

Naapektuhan si Paz nang nangyari. Naging malungkutin siya. Madalas niyang naalala ang binatang Kastila na nalunod habang sinasambit ang kanyang pangalan. Bilang pag-aalala sa nalunod na binata, ang ilog ay pinangalanan nilang Pasig, at si Paz ang tinaguriang Mutya ng Pasig. Boots B. Nicolas, PRRC

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Umaga pa noon, sa may asotea ang nag-uulayawAy dalawang sabik na magkasintahan,May bango ang simoy ng hanging amihan,Tubig ng estero’y may awit sa bangkang nagsisipagdaan

“Di kaya totoong sa pinatunguhang malayong lupalop,Ang iniwang sinta’y saglit mong nalimot?’“Hindi kailanman,” ang masuyong sagot.Aakalain ba noon gang umaga’y dilim ang kasunod?

Lumatag ang gabi. Ang alpa’y napipi’t lungsod ay nahimbing.Subalit sa parang namalaging gisingAng layang nagpuyat at ayaw pasiil.Mag-aalas-dose, sa pampang ay isang Bangka ang humimpil.

Lalaki’y umibis, at pamaya-maya sa may asotea,Dalawang anino ay nagging iisa.Ang buwa’y nagkubli. Ilang sandali pa…Tubig ng estero’y hiniwa ng bangkang sa Pasig papunta.

May putok ng baril. Tubig ay natina ng dugong bayani.May mga nabuwal sa dilim ng gabi.Tubig ng estero ay hindi kumati,Ngunit pinaitim naman sa lumipas ng basura’t dumi.

Wala na ang liryo; wala rin sa pampang ang damong malago.Wala ang dalagang may tapis at panyo.Wala ang amihan, ang mabangong samyo.Ang narito’y tubig ng katotohanang hindi maitago.

ANG ALAMAT NG ILOG PASIG

TUBIG NG ESTEROBoots B. Nicolas

Documents

02prrc.gov.ph/images/ilognatin_pdf/2014_ILOG-NATIN-2nd-QTR-April-June_2014.pdf · 33 Sipatin ang mga salita Palaisipan 34 Tubig ng Estero Ang Alamat ng Ilog Pasig 17 Greater Public