#MapuanMakabayanMakakalikasan

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Pasig River Under Threat

Author: Geo Paulo Tambalo and Joshua Ezekiel Pante

Graphic Designer: Astrid Apellado

Pasig River In Retrospect

The Pasig River is a rightful Filipino treasure for its countless contributions to the nation’s history and success. Without its strong currents, natural interconnectedness, and formerly pristine waters, Manila would not have had the Tagalogs establish early civilization and the rest of the world subsequently rushing in for economic activity, development, and cultural and religious exchange. Even the very appearance of the capital city can be attributed to the river itself, as it allowed the lucrative Manila-Acapulco galleon trade to continue from 1565 to 1815 and eventually influence the infrastructures being built. Despite its utility in Filipino triumph and everyday life, the Pasig River was neglected and left to become a dumping ground of polluting waste, thus obtaining the "biologically dead" status [1].

A Looming Threat to Pasig River’s Potentials

With the Philippine government giving the green light to the Pasig River Expressway (PAREX) project, the two decades' worth of multisectoral rehabilitation efforts put into the Pasig River may all come to waste. At 19.37 kilometers long and six lanes wide, the proposed infrastructure by San Miguel Corporation (SMC) is elevated to traverse the entirety of the Pasig River and, more importantly, create more traffic space between the eastern and western sections of Metro Manila. SMC has control measures, as indicated in their Environmental Impact Statement, that address some emerging ecological concerns associated with the PAREX, like dredging to prevent flooding and waste removal to counter existing solid waste pollution [2]. However, an elevated expressway constructed on the riverbanks, partially covering the entire river, is nothing short of a structural limitation to the many potentials of Pasig River.

Potential to Support Diverse Forms of Life

Though SMC believes otherwise [3], the Pasig River is not dead. The river, including its banks, has now become home to 118 species of trees and vegetation, 39 species of birds, eight species of fish, and several aquatic plants, according to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) [4]. Life is especially evident for the groups of Filipino fisherfolks who have even shared their daily catches from the river, like "tilapia" and "hito," on social media platforms. Aside from sustenance, the Pasig River supports Filipino lives by providing space for recreation and a reliable route for humanitarian aid during earthquakes and other natural calamities [5].

But, should PAREX be built, the maximum potential of the Pasig River to support life may remain unfulfilled. Among the many possible ecological impacts of riverine highway development noted by the United States Environmental Protection Agency are the immediate destruction, fragmentation, and degradation of natural habitats, pollution from vehicular and construction processes, and disruption of soil and river processes, including the increased risk of flood, erosion, and chemical contamination in the long run [6]. Meanwhile, science advocates slam the elevated expressway for partially blocking the natural sunlight needed for making oxygen available to the recovering food chains in Pasig River [7].

Potential to Become a Natural Transportation Route

A perfect example of utilizing the water transportation capacity is the Pasig River Ferry Service (PRFS). Unbeknownst to many Filipinos, despite being free of charge, this alternative mode of transport also links Metro Manila's eastern and western sections, from Escolta to Pinagbuhatan, while taking its passengers on a tour of several cultural landmarks along Pasig River, like the Manila Post Office. However, PRFS remains limited in services, with only 11 boats, each capable of carrying 36 to 55 passengers, and 12 stations [8].

SMC claims that PAREX, a project devoid of taxpayers' money, may complement the PRFS during its operational phase [9]. Though this ultimately suggests that Filipinos may fully maximize their monetary contributions, researchers suggest such an outcome is unlikely. The internationally recognized Braess Paradox states that new roads result in further traffic congestion in congested urban transportation networks [10], like the one in Metro Manila. Poor traffic flow is still the most likely case in the future since PAREX is designed to accommodate—and inevitably encourage—more private than public vehicles.

Potential to Protect Communities from Extreme Natural Events

Since time immemorial, the Pasig river has been protecting its vicinity from heat waves and flooding. Its natural ability to prevent the sun’s heat from being emitted back to ambient air keeps surrounding cities relatively cool [11]. With its constant currents, the Pasig River also keeps erratic rainwater from flooding communities [12].

PAREX presents the people near Pasig River with assurance and uncertainty. More heat-absorbing concrete structures from PAREX–and less sunlight reflected by the river–could only mean extreme heat incidents that threaten the lives of vulnerable Filipinos and other organisms. As the DENR still probes for the possible environmental impacts of the project, Filipinos are left with uncertainty over the effectiveness of dredging against floods [13].

Pasig River vs PAREX: The Final Verdict

Prioritizing the mobility of cars over the mobility of people, PAREX is just another life-depleting structure, a primary source of pollutants, and a structural symbol of non-inclusivity and environmental imprudence. Given that only about 12% of Metro Manila households own at least one car [14], the government must instead divert its political will from band-aid traffic solutions to long-term improvements on public transportation, waste management, and green spaces for the majority. Investments must not be made in such environmental risk that is ultimately incapable of addressing the increasing volume of private road vehicles—the underlying reason behind Metro Manila's traffic woes.

References

‌1.

Gilles SN. Revitalization of the Pasig River Through the Years: Bringing a Dying Ecosystem Back to Life [Internet]. Muhon Journal for UP College of Architecture (draft for review)2019 [cited 2023 Sep 24];Available from: https://www.academia.edu/5765195/Revitalization_of_the_Pasig_River_Through_the_Years_Bringing_a_Dying_Ecosystem_Back_to_Life

2.

San Miguel Corporation Infrastructure. Project Description for Scoping: Pasig River Expressway Project [Internet]. 2021 [cited 2023 Sep 24]. Available from: https://eia.emb.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/PDS-Pasig-River-Expressway-Project.pdf

3.

Mangubat L. Pushback against the 19.4km PAREX, explained [Internet]. Spin.ph2021 [cited 2023 Sep 24];Available from: https://www.spin.ph/life/cars-and-tech/the-parex-protests-explained-a1017-20210929-lfrm

4.

The Philippine Star. The Pasig River: Our nation’s lifeline [Internet]. Philstar.com2019 [cited 2023 Sep 24];Available from: https://www.philstar.com/business/science-and-environment/2019/07/28/1938828/pasig-river-our-nations-lifeline#:~:text=More%20than%2030%20million%20kilograms,fish%2C%20and%20several%20aquatic%20plants

‌5.

GMA Public Affairs. “Trip to Pasig,” dokumentaryo ni Howie Severino | I-Witness [Internet]. YouTube2023 [cited 2023 Sep 24];Available from: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HiWqL1uq9f8&ab_channel=GMAPublicAffairs

6.

United States Environmental Protection Agency. Evaluation of Ecological Impacts from Highway Development [Internet]. 1994 [cited 2023 Sep 24]. Available from: https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2014-08/documents/ecological-impacts-highway-development-pg_0.pdf

7.

Mangaluz J. DENR still probing possible environmental impact of PAREx [Internet]. INQUIRER.net2023 [cited 2023 Sep 24];Available from: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1793793/denr-still-probing-possible-environmental-impact-of-parex

8.

Naguna JL. Looking for a better commuting experience? The Pasig River Ferry Service might be for you [Internet]. PIA2023 [cited 2023 Sep 24];Available from: https://pia.gov.ph/features/2023/03/31/looking-for-a-better-commuting-experience-the-pasig-river-ferry-service-might-be-for-you

9.

San Miguel Corporation. SMC reaffirms commitment to build PAREX sustainably, reports gains in Pasig River cleanup initiative [Internet]. Sanmiguel.com.ph2022 [cited 2023 Sep 24];Available from: https://www.sanmiguel.com.ph/news/smc-reaffirms-commitment-to-build-parex-sustainably‌

10.

Nagurney A, Nagurney L. The Braess Paradox [Internet]. 2020. Available from: https://supernet.isenberg.umass.edu/articles/braess-encyc.pdf

11.

United States Environmental Protection Agency. Learn About Heat Islands | US EPA [Internet]. US EPA2014 [cited 2023 Sep 25];Available from: https://www.epa.gov/heatislands/learn-about-heat-islands

‌12.

Pedrajas J. PAREX would bring more heat, more flooding in NCR, various groups warn [Internet]. Manila Bulletin2021 [cited 2023 Sep 25];Available from: https://mb.com.ph/2021/09/29/parex-would-bring-more-heat-more-flooding-in-ncr-various-groups-warn/

‌13.

Mangaluz J. DENR still probing possible environmental impact of PAREx [Internet]. INQUIRER.net2023 [cited 2023 Sep 25];Available from: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1793793/denr-still-probing-possible-environmental-impact-of-parex

‌14.

Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities. “Liberate the 88%!”: Rep. Legarda echoes experts’ calls to prioritize Metro Manila majority of non-car owners [Internet]. ICSC | Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities2020 [cited 2023 Sep 24];Available from: https://icsc.ngo/liberate-the-88/

[usbongkalikasan]

EARTH HOUR & WOMEN'S MONTH CELEBRATION

Author: Rad Lem-ew Vince B. Balisong

Graphic Designer: Sadie Catherine E. Velasco

Bernarditas De Castro-Muller

Bernarditas De Castro-Muller was a former Filipina diplomat and climate change negotiator. She was a special and environmental adviser for South Centre and the Department of Foreign Affairs of the Philippines respectively. She had represented the Philippines in the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) since its inauguration in 1994 and the chief player in representing and negotiating for her country and for developing countries in the negotiations for the Kyoto Protocol in 1997.

She led negotiations for the G77 and China negotiating bloc, where the Philippines is affiliated, championing ever so passionately the interests of the poorest countries in climate talks especially in the provision of climate finance, paving the way for the eventual creation of the green climate fund.

In a written statement of Senator Loren Legarda during Ms. Bernadita’s passing last December 14, 2018, she says “her fierce negotiating style had earned her the name "dragon woman"--a character feared by industrialized countries but adored by poor countries. She would however always insist that she was not working for the developing countries, rather for their children's children and what we will leave the world." The Philippines will always pay tribute to Ms. De Castro-Muller’s imprint to the present and future advocates in the Philippines

Anna Rosario Oposa

Anna Rosario Oposa, dubbed the Chief Mermaid, has been protecting and conserving the Philippine seas and coasts as a marine conservationist and co- founder of the Save Philippine Seas by mobilizing seatizen-led initiatives for collective action and behavior change.

Anna graduated with the Bachelor of Arts in English Studies from the University of the Philippines-Diliman in 2011, and earned her MSc in Conservation Science (Merit) from Imperial College London in 2015 through the Chevening scholarship. In 2017, she was one of the three Global Fellows in Marine Conservation at the Duke University Marine Laboratory. She also received The Outstanding Women in the Nation’s Service (TOWNS) award for marine ecology, an accolade recognizing women “who have shown outstanding dedication, exceptional talent, and a history of contributing positively to society.”

Anna protects the country’s coastal marine resources through a unique arrangement of conservation approaches that flow and feed into each other as it reinforces the core objective of empowering young scientists, activists, and leaders as change-makers for the environment. The TOWNES awardee, through education and community-based projects, inspired many youth to value our oceans.

Regina Paz “Gina” La’o Lopez

Regina Paz “Gina” La’o Lopez was a former environment Secretary of the Philippines, philanthropist, eco-warrior, and fervent activist against destructive mining practices.

In both the business and public sectors, Lopez was most recognized for her campaign against mining practices in her nation. In 2010, she teamed up with the Palawan NGO Network Inc. (PNNI) to organize the Save Palawan Movement, a confederation that pushed for a complete mining ban on the island of Palawan, which is home to an underground river and cave system that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. She started a petition against mining, which attracted a historic 10 million signatures. By 2012, then-President Benigno Aquino Jr. signed an executive order prohibiting the issuance of new mining licenses.

Afterwards, Ms. Lopez landed the job of acting environment secretary when President Rodrigo Duterte came to power in 2016. She wasted no time in going after major mining companies that she said had flagrantly violated environmental laws. She ordered 23 mines to shut down and several others to suspend operations, and canceled 75 lucrative contracts for mines that she said threatened watersheds.

Salvador Panelo, a spokesman for Mr. Duterte, called her one of the country’s “most passionate cabinet members” and said her “environmental advocacy and legacy remains unparalleled to this day.”

“She fiercely fought powerful interests in the mining sector, as well as in industries having negative effects on our ecology,” he added.

Ms. Lopez passed away last August 19, 2019 at the age of 65 years old after multiple organ failure related to her brain cancer; however, she remains as a leader to look up to and an inspiration to many for her courage and kindness.

UsKa offers its highest respect to these said leaders for their engagement towards environmental protection and advocacy. They pioneered a sense of responsibility to many Filipinos out there and received towering respect across national borders. As Earth Hour is just right around the corner, the organization takes time to bring into the spotlight their background and success towards the environmental community.

[usbongkalikasan]

The Climate Crisis: A Call to Action for Governments and Citizens Alike

Author: Joshua Ezekiel Pante

Graphic Designer: Miguel Teodoro

On April 22, 2023, we commemorated Earth Day 43 years after its establishment. Earth Day is an important day that brings millions of people together worldwide to demand action and accountability for the ongoing climate crisis. It raises awareness, encourages cooperation, and catalyzes governments to take action to mitigate and adapt to the effects of climate change. Earth Day started in the U.S.A. in the 1970s, and now it has reached globally - this shows the increasing importance of the environment for our survival and well-being of people around the world.

Climate Change threatens the very foundations of our planet - the ecosystem, environment, and society as we speak. An increase in temperature, even if it’s just 1°C, poses an extreme danger, such as rising sea levels, an increase in severe weather events, and unbearable temperatures. The Philippines is one of the most vulnerable and affected countries, even though it is one of the countries that have the least annual carbon emission production [1].

The Philippines has experienced and continues to experience extreme environmental disasters, such as building the Kaliwa Dam, which may be detrimental to the environment and impact indigenous people's rights. The Mindoro Oil Spill had 270,000 liters of diesel fuel spilled into the waters surrounding Mindoro Island. This greatly damaged the local ecosystem, affecting the livelihoods of many fishermen in the area. Similarly, disrupting nature— as in the case of the Kaliwa Dam may cause lessening our natural barrier against typhoons - increases the possibility of flooding and landslides. Not to mention, the gross violation of the rights of the indigenous people, Dumagat Remontados. The national and local government has done nothing to support the livelihoods of the Filipinos affected by these disasters; instead, they continue to support the perpetrators of these disasters at the expense of their people and the environment [2].

Despite the challenges, Filipinos across the country continue to be proactive in fighting for their community and the environment. This Earth Day, the symbolic gesture reminds us that our environment is essential to survival and well-being. People worldwide are protesting, campaigning, and making speeches to make their voices heard because we only have one planet, and we need to take action now to make a difference. Earth Day serves as an impetus for change and a call to unite in working towards a sustainable future.

We at UsKa, stand with everyone who continues to fight for the environment and the people. We, as the youth, know the gravity of climate change and the urgent need to address its consequences. We express our solidarity with all those working to make a positive impact towards creating a sustainable future for our world and the generations to come.

References:

[1] Ritchie, H., Rosado P., Roser, M. (2022). CO₂ and Greenhouse Gas Emissions. Our World in Data. 'https://ourworldindata.org/co2-and-greenhouse-gas-emissions'

[2] Gascon, M. (2023, March 15). Gov’t failures bared in Mindoro oil spill. Inquirer. https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/…/govt-failures-bared-in…

[3] Cabico, G. (2023, April 22). Oil spill-hit communities demand swift action, justice on Earth Day. Philstar. https://www.philstar.com/…/oil-spill-hit-communities.

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PETITION TO BAN SINGLE-USE PLASTICS IN THE MAPÚA UNIVERSITY CANTEEN

Author: Kenneth Llanes

Graphic Designer: Blase Handayan

We, Usbong Kalikasan, a student-led environmental organization, are dedicated to promoting sustainable practices; we are writing to present the compelling case for the urgent need to ban single-use plastics in the Mapúa University canteen. The following data and statistics, supported by reputable sources, emphasize the detrimental impact of single-use plastics on our environment and the numerous benefits of transitioning to sustainable alternatives.

Environmental Impact:

Single-use plastics take hundreds of years to decompose, polluting our landfills and oceans. According to a United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) report, plastic waste can persist in the environment for up to 500 years (United Nations Environment Programme, n.d.).

Plastic waste in the ocean harms marine life and ecosystems, with an estimated 8 million metric tons of plastic entering our oceans yearly (Jambeck et al., 2015). This poses a significant threat to marine biodiversity, as highlighted by research published in Science (Wilcox et al., 2015).

Without immediate action, there will be more plastic than fish in the ocean by 2050, according to the Ellen MacArthur Foundation (Ellen MacArthur Foundation, 2016).

2. Health Concerns:

Single-use plastics contain harmful chemicals that can leach into food and beverages, posing potential health risks to consumers. The World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized the need for further research into the impact of microplastics on human health (World Health Organization, 2019).

Microplastics, resulting from the breakdown of single-use plastics, have been found in our drinking water, seafood, and even the air we breathe, raising concerns about their impact on human health. Studies by researchers at the University of Newcastle in Australia have shown that people may consume about 5 grams of plastic per week, equivalent to the weight of a credit card (Schwabl et al., 2019).

3. Benefits of Banning Single-Use Plastics:

Mitigating Climate Change: The production and disposal of single-use plastics contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. According to a study published in Science Advances, the global greenhouse gas emissions from the plastic lifecycle could reach 1.34 billion metric tons annually by 2030 (Geyer et al., 2017). We reduce our carbon footprint by eliminating single-use plastics and contributing to climate change mitigation efforts.

Protecting Marine Life: Banning single-use plastics helps safeguard marine ecosystems and preserves the biodiversity of our oceans. A report by the Ocean Conservancy found that plastic waste poses a significant threat to more than 800 marine species through entanglement, ingestion, and habitat destruction (Ocean Conservancy, 2021).

Preserving Resources: Sustainable alternatives, such as reusable containers and utensils, conserve valuable resources like water, energy, and raw materials. The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) highlight the importance of responsible consumption and production (SDG 12) in achieving a sustainable future for all (United Nations, n.d.).

Inspiring Sustainable Behaviors: Implementing a ban on single-use plastics fosters a culture of environmental consciousness and responsible consumption among students, faculty, and staff. It empowers individuals to make sustainable choices and positively impact the environment.

With this said, we would also like to recognize the previous actions by the University to address these said issues in accordance with the enforcement of sustainability commitments, as outlined in earlier ordinances of Mapúa University, including but not limited to the following actions as found in the Waste Minimization Program of Mapúa University published in 2021 and the Policy on Plastic Waste Reduction by Montes (2021):

Prohibiting concessionaires of the University canteen from using plastic utensils and containers with the products they sell. However, these commitments are not entirely adhered to in practice.

Installing water dispensers and promoting the use of reusable bottles to reduce the reliance on plastic beverage containers.

Implementing a rewards system that recognizes and incentivizes students to adopt sustainable practices, such as offering discounts or special privileges for reusable containers and utensils.

While we acknowledge and appreciate the sustainability policy's existence, its impact can be significantly enhanced through robust implementation and strict enforcement. By prioritizing sustainable practices in the canteen, we can foster a culture of environmental consciousness and demonstrate our commitment to a greener future.

We kindly request your support in implementing the following actions to transition to a plastic-free canteen:

Collaborate with the organization, Usbong Kalikasan, to actively participate in planning and implementing university plastic waste solutions.

Conduct a survey or consultation process to gather input from students, concessionaires, and other stakeholders regarding their concerns, suggestions, and willingness to support sustainable alternatives in the canteen.

Reassess existing policies on the ban of single-use plastics and strengthen their implementation.

Establish an efficient university plastic collection system and partner with a local recycling facility to divert plastic waste from landfills and coastal areas.

Conduct university-wide awareness campaigns to educate the Mapúan community about the environmental impacts of plastic waste and the benefits of the proposed ban on single-use.

This initiative will protect our environment and inspire students and the broader Mapúa community to adopt sustainable practices in their daily lives. Engaging students in decision-making creates a sense of ownership and responsibility toward building a sustainable campus. This initiative aligns with Mapúa University's core values and empowers students to become agents of change in their communities and future careers. By embracing this ban, Mapúa University will lead by example and empower students to become agents of change in sustainability. We can create a healthier and more sustainable campus community together.

References:

Ellen MacArthur Foundation. (2016). The New Plastics Economy: Rethinking the future of plastics. Retrieved from https://www.ellenmacarthurfoundation.org/publications/the-new-plastics-economy-rethinking-the-future-of-plastics

Geyer, R., Jambeck, J. R., & Law, K. L. (2017). Production, use, and fate of all plastics ever made. Science Advances, 3(7), e1700782.

Jambeck, J. R., Geyer, R., Wilcox, C., Siegler, T. R., Perryman, M., Andrady, A., … & Law, K. L. (2015). Plastic waste inputs from land into the ocean. Science, 347(6223), 768-771.

Mapúa University. (2021). Waste Minimization Program of Mapúa University. Retrieved from: https://sustainability.mapua.edu.ph/assets/Waste%20Minimization%20Program%20of%20Mapúa%20University.pdf

Montes, J. (2021). Policy on Plastic Waste Reduction. Mapúa University. Retrieved from: https://sustainability.mapua.edu.ph/assets/SDG12/12.2.6%20%20Policy%20on%20plastic%20waste%20reduction.pdf

Ocean Conservancy. (2021). Trash Free Seas® Program. Retrieved from https://oceanconservancy.org/trash-free-seas/

Schwabl, P., Köppel, S., Königshofer, P., Bucsics, T., Trauner, M., Reiberger, T., … & Liebmann, B. (2019). Detection of various microplastics in human stool: A prospective case series. Annals of Internal Medicine, 171(7), 453-457.

United Nations Environment Programme. (n.d.). Marine Litter. Retrieved from https://www.unep.org/explore-topics/oceans-seas/what-we-do/addressing-marine-pollution/marine-litter

United Nations. (n.d.). Sustainable Development Goals. Retrieved from https://sdgs.un.org/goals/goal12

World Health Organization. (2019). Microplastics in drinking-water. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/water_sanitation_health/publications/microplastics-in-drinking-water/en/

[usbongkalikasan]

Usbong Kalikasan Statement on Kaliwa Dam

Author: Geo Paulo M. Tambalo

Graphic Designer: Kandhalvi Maidinshifwell Asaali

Exactly eleven years ago, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed the 21st of March as the International Day of Forests to inspire societal admiration and awareness of the importance of all forest types. This year’s celebration, with the theme “Forests and Health,” calls on every country to work in consideration of the interconnectedness of the state of forests and overall human welfare. Essentially, the imperative realization is that the scope of deforestation impacts goes beyond the natural world, extending to our economy, society, and health.

The Philippines, however, heavily contradicts the aspirations of today's event with recent news about its New Centennial Water Source - Kaliwa Dam Project that China funds via a bilateral loan agreement. Worth 12.2 billion pesos, the Metropolitan Water Sewerage System (MWSS) imprudently addresses the water shortage crisis in the greater Manila area by flooding 300 hectares of forest land and excavating parts of the legally-protected Sierra Madre mountain range to roughly create a 63-meter-high water reservoir and a 28-kilometer-long conveyance tunnel. Ultimately, the operationalization of the dam project comes at the expense of all existing natural ecosystems and Filipino communities in and near the construction areas. 

Most affected by this government enterprise is the Kaliwa watershed, a declared forest reserve and national wildlife sanctuary under Proclamation No. 573 of 1968 and Proclamation No. 1636 of 1977, respectively. Located at the southern end of the Sierra Madre mountain range, the contested Kaliwa watershed is a critical environment for the survival of an abundance of wildlife and plants, some of which are even endemic to the Philippines. All the unregulated deforestation before the project's conception, at a rate of 408 hectares per year, has already rendered at least 8 animal species and 67 plant species vulnerable to endangerment or extinction soon. Logically, if the Kaliwa dam construction pushes through, the forest reserve may no longer be home to many in the still-developing list of biological species.

As the "Forests and Health" theme suggests, any harm inflicted on the montane and lowland forests of the Kaliwa watershed is naturally transferrable to Filipino communities. Immediate victims of the Kaliwa dam project are the indigenous peoples (IPs), mainly from the Dumagat tribe, who have since relied on their ancestral forest lands for subsistence. But, for a country that is visited by an average of 20 typhoons per year, a dam in the southern Sierra Madre mountain range would mean more risk of flooding and flash floods for nearby human settlements in Quezon province, Rizal province, and even some parts of Metro Manila. Although flood control projects have been developed to combat these possible catastrophes, the risk of an immobilized local economy during and after construction still looms to add weight to the already heavy financial burden of the Kaliwa dam construction.

In celebration of the International Day of Forests, we stand united with the Dumagat-Remontado tribe in their call to stop the Kaliwa dam construction and save what is left of Sierra Madre. We implore the Philippine government to consider viable and sustainable solutions to the water shortage crisis that do not disrupt our natural forest lands. We should recognize that, instead of deforesting watersheds, restoring and conserving forests in existing watersheds like Angat and La Mesa is better for the cost and longevity of water supplies. 

References:

Asian Disaster Reduction Center. (2013). Asian Disaster Reduction Center（ADRC）. Adrc.asia. https://www.adrc.asia/nationinformation.php?NationCode=608&Lang=en#:~:text=Located%20along%20the%20typhoon%20belt,frequent%20earthquakes%20and%20volcanic%20eruptions.

Department of Environment and Natural Resources. (2013). Upper Marikina River Basin Protected Landscape & Kaliwa Watershed Forest Reserve. Denr.gov.ph. https://forestry.denr.gov.ph/b+wiser/index.php/sites/umrb/8-b-wiser-sites

Haribon Foundation. (2018, November 20). Kaliwa Dam will destroy Sierra Madre biodiversity – Haribon Foundation - The Haribon Foundation. The Haribon Foundation. https://haribon.org.ph/kaliwa-dam-will-destroy-sierra-madre-biodiversity-haribon-foundation/

Haribon Foundation. (2019, June 25). Stop Kaliwa Dam - The Haribon Foundation. The Haribon Foundation. https://haribon.org.ph/stop-kaliwa-dam/

Joe Priela. (2023, February 2). Kaliwa Dam project to be completed by 2026, MWSS says. Manila Bulletin. https://mb.com.ph/2023/02/02/kaliwa-dam-project-to-be-completed-by-2026-mwss-says/

Metro Manila water security study : final report (English). Washington, D.C. : World Bank Group. http://documents.worldbank.org/curated/en/966091468107676247/Metro-Manila-water-security-study-final-report

Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System. (2019). Environmental Impact Statement: Kaliwa Dam Project (pp. 1–389).