The Upper Talavera River in Nueva Ecija has secured third place in the Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ (DENR) RIVERs for Life Awards, a nationwide competition recognizing efforts to restore and maintain clean river systems. The 93-kilometer river, which runs through San Jose City and several municipalities, represented Central Luzon in the search for the country’s cleanest rivers.
Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga presented the award to DENR Regional Executive Director Ralph Pablo, along with a plaque of recognition and a Php 50,000 cash prize. The recognition highlights the ongoing efforts of government agencies and local communities in rehabilitating and sustaining the river’s health.
Pablo emphasized the importance of a science-based approach in river management, citing collaborations with local government units and stakeholders. DENR Central Luzon has worked to ensure an approved 10-year solid waste management plan, provide technical support for local policies, and implement efficient waste collection and recovery systems.
One of the key initiatives has been the mobilization of communities and Estero Rangers, who have collectively removed over 10,000 cubic meters of waste from the river. These cleanup activities have significantly improved the river’s water quality, making it more sustainable for both human and environmental use.
In addition to waste management, reforestation has played a crucial role in the river’s conservation. Under the National Greening Program, 5,596 hectares of watershed areas have been reforested, with strong community participation. The project ensures that both men and women are actively engaged in environmental conservation efforts.
Gerundio Fernandez, provincial head of DENR Nueva Ecija, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to protecting the Upper Talavera River. He stressed the importance of maintaining the river as a sustainable lifeline, benefiting thousands of hectares of farmland and forestlands in the region.
The RIVERs for Life Awards assessed entries based on multiple factors, including water quality improvements, waste management initiatives, community engagement, and innovative conservation strategies. With 505 tributaries feeding into the Pampanga River Basin, the Upper Talavera River’s recognition underscores the impact of collaborative environmental efforts in Central Luzon.