The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) on Friday signed an agreement with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to establish a collaborative effort for the rehabilitation of the Pasig River and its surrounding communities.
Both agencies acknowledge their aligned mandates and shared commitment to the environmental rehabilitation and development of the Pasig River. Their cooperation will focus on public education and the promotion of sustainable transport options.
The agreement encompasses collaborative projects such as Dalaw Turo and Pasig River Educational Tours. These initiatives aim to enhance communication, education, and public awareness about the Pasig River Ferry Service (PRFS) as a viable transportation option.
They also seek to raise awareness about the Pasig River Rehabilitation Program and engage various stakeholders in support of its objectives.
MMDA Chairman Romando Artes, in a message conveyed by Deputy Chairman Undersecretary Frisco San Juan Jr., emphasized that the partnership with DENR-National Capital Region is timely and relevant.
Artes said the initiative aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s “Pasig Bigyang Buhay Muli” project to restore the iconic river to its former pristine state.
“We appreciate the DENR-NCR’s involvement in this initiative, which strengthens our collective efforts to care for, beautify, and revive the river—an important symbol of our nation’s vibrant history,” said Artes.
He further emphasized the importance of rehabilitating Ilog Pasig and expanding its potential as a sustainable urban transport system and a tourism asset for the metropolis.
Meanwhile, San Juan noted that the MMDA is continually working on initiatives to beautify, expand, and improve the ferry service to accommodate more passengers.
In 2024, the PRFS recorded a total ridership of 195,789, demonstrating the continued use of this sole water-based transportation service in the NCR.
Erlinda Daquigan, DENR-NCR OIC Assistant Regional Director for Management Services, described the agreement as a “pivotal step” in efforts to restore the ecological integrity of the Pasig River System and promote sustainable urban mobility throughout Metro Manila.
“We aim to harmonize environmental education and public engagement with sustainable transport solutions through this collaboration. Initiatives such as the Pasig River Educational Tours and community cleanup drives will help bridge awareness and action, empowering citizens to participate in the broader effort to revitalize the river,” said Daquigan.
She also expressed gratitude to San Juan and Chairman Artes for their support and active involvement, which will significantly contribute to rebuilding public trust in the river’s potential as a thriving ecosystem, transforming it from a neglected waterway into a symbol of integrated urban renewal.
Both agencies will outline their identified programs, activities, and projects for potential collaboration. They will also provide the necessary technical and administrative support for implementing the collaborative projects, in line with their mandates and resources.
Additionally, the agreement addresses the rehabilitation and sustainable development of Manila Bay and the overall environment and natural resources in the NCR.