NEWSFLASH

PASIG RIVER CLEAN-UP INTENSIFIED

MANILA, Jan. 22, 2000 President Joseph "Erap" Ejercito Estrada has ordered environment authorities to intensify their efforts in cleaning up the Pasig River and its surrounding areas and convert them into parks.

Secretary Antonio Cerilles of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) said the President wants the people to have more places where they can breathe fresh air.

"Isa sa mga programa ni President Estrada ay iyong mga katabi ng Ilog Pasig ay i-convert into a walk and parang mga parke iyan at lalagyan iyan ng mga facilities na iyong mga kababayan natin ay doon na mismo magpapahinga (One of the programs the President wants implemented is the conversion of areas near the river into parks. He wants facilities installed so people can stroll there)," Cerilles said in a radio interview.

He added these efforts should complement ongoing efforts to clean up the Pasig River and Manila Bay, and their immediate surroundings as well.

At present, Cerilles said, his office is coordinating with the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) to implement the President’s order.

The DENR, he added, has also sought the help of international organizations in mapping out plans to clean up Manila Bay.

Earlier, Cerilles disclosed the government is now drawing up international environmental standards to protect the public from foreign investors who want to make money at the expense of the environment.

He added this policy should assure the public that the government is not just after foreigners’ money.

"Wala po sinasabing above the law o may exemption. Kahit na po malaki iyong investment nila (No one is above the law. Even if they are big investors)," he said.

Cerilles also said the DENR continues to work with local government officials in drawing up these standards.