CLARK FREEPORT ZONE, Pampanga – The Environmental Management Bureau Regional Office No. III (EMB-R3), in collaboration with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-National Capital Region (DENR-NCR), convened a coordination meeting on February 13, 2025, at Widus Hotel to ensure the smooth implementation of the Gawad Taga-Ilog Awards Program in Central Luzon.
The initiative, originally launched in Metro Manila, aims to recognize outstanding efforts in waterway rehabilitation in response to the Supreme Court’s Writ of Continuing Mandamus for the restoration of Manila Bay.
In his opening remarks, EMB-R3 OIC-Regional Director Geri-Geronimo R. Sañez expressed gratitude to DENR-NCR program pioneers for sharing insights on the initiative. He also commended the board of judges for taking on the challenge and emphasized the importance of collaboration among mandamus agencies, local government units (LGUs), stakeholders, and communities to drive the program’s success.
DENR-NCR’s For. Justice Marie T. Paala provided an overview of the program, highlighting its objectives, challenges faced in Metro Manila, and its role in improving water quality. Mr. Arizol John Abad, also from DENR-NCR, detailed the step-by-step implementation process, offering recommendations for EMB-R3’s adoption of the program.
Key discussions covered the proposed scoresheet, nomination requirements, online submission process, and official recognition of judges.
In closing, Engr. Nesty P. Mendiola, OIC-Chief of the Environmental Monitoring and Enforcement Division, extended appreciation to all participants, expressing confidence that the Gawad Taga-Ilog Awards Program will help strengthen partnerships and enhance the quality of waterways in Central Luzon.