QUEZON CITY (PIA) – The Department of Environment and Natural Resources – National Capital Region (DENR-NCR) urges local government units (LGUs), especially barangays to join the Gawad Taga-Ilog: Search for the Most Improved Estero and Waterways in Metro Manila-Year 5 (GTI 5.0).
GTI 5.0 encourages citizens to take care of the environment by actively participating in local initiatives that improve waterways and strengthen community bonds.
“Through this program, we want to show that sustainable solutions don’t just come from the top; they happen when residents and local leaders work together to achieve common goals,” said DENR NCR Regional Executive Director Atty. Michael Drake P. Matias.
This year, GTI will involve all 16 cities and one municipality in Metro Manila, each nominating an estero or waterway to demonstrate measurable improvements in:
- Solid waste management
- Liquid waste management
- Relocation of informal settlers and removal of illegal structures
- Habitat and resource management
- Sustainability and partnerships
The DENR also seeks to expand GTI to CALABARZON and Central Luzon, completing the Manila Bay Region. This initiative intends to recognize more local governments and involve more communities in sustainable practices to help in the rehabilitation of Manila Bay.
Nominations for estero and waterways will be accepted from the 2nd to the 4th week of January. (GLDG/PIA-NCR)
