Environment Secretary Roy Cimatu on Monday urged the public to back government efforts to revive the historic Pasig River that once served as Manila’s source of trade and commerce.
“Taking care of the river is a shared responsibility,” he said.
He encouraged the public, particularly the youth, to become “watchdogs in reminding the government of its responsibility” to restore Pasig River to its former glory.
“I welcome the public’s guidance and watchful eye in ensuring what is promised is delivered,” he said.
The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission conducted a Pasig River ecological tour, along with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ Strategic Communication and Initiatives Service, as part of an information campaign ordered by Cimatu to heighten public awareness on the importance of the revival of Pasig River.
At least 150 students from various public and private high schools in Metro Manila took part in the guided tour with a lecture onboard a ferry boat traversing Pasig River.
The DENR, through its Environmental Management Bureau, has continued to provide technical support for the river rehabilitation.
According to Cimatu, the government’s rehabilitation efforts cannot succeed without broader public support.
“The DENR is responsible in communicating how important the river is to the youth, who have the power to change our relation with the river,” he said.