The Commission on Human Rights on Thursday lauded government’s efforts to rehabilitate the San Juan River through the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority’s (MMDA) neighborhood upgrading program.
“The Commission recognizes various national and local government agencies, particularly the MMDA, for taking the initiative to develop this San Juan River rehabilitation program,” the CHR said in a statement.
The effort represents a collective and tangible commitment to creating a more just, safe and sustainable environment,” the it added.
“We believe that by conserving natural resources and mitigating the effects of climate change, we not only protect the rights of current times, but also contribute to the creation of an environment that supports the rights and well-being of future generations,” the CHR said.
Different national and local government agencies are collaborating to rehabilitate the San Juan River to address multifaceted challenges; revitalize the river ecosystem, improve water quality, and promote sustainable environmental practices.
“The significance of this initiative resonates with the interconnectedness of environmental preservation and human rights, both fundamental pillars of sustainable development,” the CHR said.
“A healthy and sustainable environment is an indispensable prerequisite for safeguarding the well-being and dignity of individuals,” it added.
The Commission also invoked the Universal Declaration of Human Rights to protect the right to life and a standard of living adequate for health and well-being, rights from which the right to a healthy environment can be inferred.
The economic, social and cultural rights also stated that the right to health embraces a wide range of socio-economic factors, including access to safe and potable water and adequate sanitation, safe and healthy working conditions, and a healthy environment, the CHR said.