Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga underscored the indispensable role of the River and Estero Rangers in safeguarding the rivers and streams as she emphasized the need to strengthen their capacities and ensure sustained support for their efforts.
Addressing around 2,600 Estero and River Rangers from the National Capital Region (NCR), Region III, and Region IV-A at the “DEAR (Dedication, Empowerment, Appreciation, and Recognition) Estero and River Rangers” event held in Pasay City, Loyzaga said: “Ang araw na ito ay para sa inyo, na kung saan pansamantala tayong tumitigil sa ating trabaho upang pagnilayan at ipagbunyi ang katangi-tanging gawain ninyo araw-araw upang mapanumbalik at protektahan ang nagbibigay-buhay sa ating mga urban and regional ecosystems.”
In 2024, the Estero Rangers removed a total of 34.5 million kilograms of waste from critical waterways–29.6 million kg from NCR, 3.3 million kg from Region IV-A, and 1.58 million kg from Region III.
“Their efforts go beyond statistics; each kilogram of waste they remove translates to cleaner rivers, reduced flooding, and safer communities.”
“Their efforts go beyond statistics; each kilogram of waste they remove translates to cleaner rivers, reduced flooding, and safer communities, especially in the wake of last year’s disasters and typhoons, when their work became even more urgent and demanding,” the environment chief said.
The environment head also emphasized that as the first line of defense in waste management, Estero and River Rangers stand as guardians of the environment, working in the toughest conditions to prevent pollution and mitigate the risks of flooding.
She said their work is often unseen, but its impact is undeniable. During storms and floods, the rangers clear debris to help flood waters subside and ensure the protection of countless communities.
Beyond these tasks, the rangers play a vital role in fostering environmental stewardship within their communities. They serve as advocates, educators, and role models, promoting sustainable practices at the grassroots.
“Ito ay isang makapangyarihang deklarasyon ng pag-asa at pagpapasiya.”
“Ang inyong gawain ay higit pa sa pagtanggal ng basura at sa paghikayat sa komunidad sa wastong pamamahala sa basura. Ito ay isang makapangyarihang deklarasyon ng pag-asa at pagpapasiya – isang hudyat na ang pangangalaga ng kalikasan ay hindi lamang isang trabaho kundi isang responsibilidad na nakahabi sa ating pamayanan at kultura,” Loyzaga said.
She reaffirmed DENR’s commitment to equip Estero and River Rangers with the necessary resources, training, and institutional support to enhance their capabilities.
The DENR continues to call on local communities, government agencies, and stakeholders to collaborate in strengthening efforts to protect waterways. By recognizing and supporting the invaluable service of Estero and River Rangers, it aims to inspire a culture of shared responsibility, ensuring cleaner and more sustainable waterways for future generations.
The recognition event was held in partnership with Maynilad, Nestlé, San Miguel Foods, SM Prime and International Container Terminal Services, Inc. Foundation.
