Executive Order Issued to Spearhead Rehabilitation and Development
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has taken decisive action in response to the pressing need for rehabilitating and enhancing the quality of life along the banks of the iconic Pasig River. In a significant move, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin issued a four-page Executive Order (EO) No. 35 on July 25.
The EO has established the “Inter-Agency Council for the Pasig River Urban Development,” which will play a central role in the full rehabilitation of the banks along the Pasig River water system and nearby water systems.
A Comprehensive Team to Lead the Efforts
The newly constituted inter-agency council will be led by the Secretary of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) and vice-chaired by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) chairman. This core leadership receives further support from 13 member agencies, including the DPWH, DENR, DILG, DOT, DOTr, DOF, DBM, NHCP, NCCA, PPA, PCG, LLDA, and TIEZA.
Broad Mandate for Rehabilitation and Urban Development
In addition to its primary focus on facilitating and ensuring the comprehensive rehabilitation of the Pasig River, the council also takes on the task of formulating a detailed Pasig River Urban Development Plan.
The aim is to achieve a coordinated and integrated rehabilitation of the Pasig Riverbanks system and nearby water systems.
Upholding Legal and Social Responsibilities
The council is responsible for ensuring strict compliance with the easements provided under RA 386 (Civil Code of the Philippines) and other relevant laws.
Moreover, it will undertake the study, preparation, and implementation of a comprehensive shelter plan to address the relocation of informal settlers, thus ensuring the smooth progress of the rehabilitation efforts.
Openness to Support and Collaboration
The council is also empowered to accept grants or any assistance from local and foreign sources, subject to existing laws, rules, and regulations. This opens up avenues for cooperation and support from various stakeholders in the pursuit of the Pasig River’s revitalization.
Reviewing and Recommending Presidential Issuances
In line with its mission, the council receives a directive to collaborate closely with national government agencies and local government units. Their goal is to review existing Presidential issuances related to the rehabilitation and development of the Pasig River.
As a result, the council will be able to recommend to the Office of the President the repeal or amendment of any outdated or ineffective policies hindering progress.
Accountability through Reporting
To ensure transparency and accountability, the council will diligently submit quarterly reports on the implementation of the EO. By upholding this commitment to regular reporting, they will effectively keep the public and stakeholders well informed of the progress made and the challenges faced in the ongoing efforts.
President Marcos Jr., with unwavering determination, expects his bold move in forming the “Inter-Agency Council for the Pasig River Urban Development” to unleash a transformative impact on the revitalization of the Pasig River. With this visionary step, he aims to spearhead a positive change that will significantly benefit the nation.
Furthermore, the council, through the act of bringing together diverse agencies and fostering collaboration, is strategically poised to lead the nation toward a cleaner and more sustainable future. As they progress on this path, they will undoubtedly make significant strides in enhancing the lives of those residing along the riverbanks and preserving this invaluable natural resource for generations to come.
