By Nimfa L. Estrellado DENR-EMB representatives meet with Pitogo Mayor Dexter L. Sayat to discuss new findings on the Mayuboc River assessme...
 |
| DENR-EMB representatives meet with Pitogo Mayor Dexter L. Sayat to discuss new findings on the Mayuboc River assessment. (Bagong Pitogo) |
PITOGO, Quezon - Life has long revolved around the Mayuboc River in Pitogo, Quezon, a crucial source of livelihood, irrigation, and daily sustenance for the town’s residents. The river’s enduring role now places it at the center of renewed efforts to protect its ecological health.
As environmental changes and population growth continue, concerns over the river’s long-term condition have increased. These concerns led to a new study to understand the river’s current state and guide future decisions.
To address these concerns, DENR-EMB representatives met with the Mayor to share new information from the ongoing study of the Mayuboc River. The briefing underscored the need for a clearer understanding of the river’s condition as the community considers its next steps.
Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Officer Rodel Peñaranda explained what recent findings reveal about the river’s condition. The discussion outlined how the study will shape upcoming decisions on river classification and protection.
Peñaranda noted that early community engagement helps translate scientific findings into practical action. He emphasized that safeguarding the Mayuboc River requires cooperation between technical agencies and the residents who rely on it every day.
Interest grew during the public consultation as community members gathered to understand the goals and implications of the proposed re-classification. The session presented the legal basis, water-quality standards, and expected benefits in clear, accessible terms.
The discussion also helped clarify how the changes could affect the river and nearby communities, giving residents a practical sense of what to expect. By simplifying technical requirements and anticipated outcomes, the consultation ensured the initiative was easier for stakeholders to grasp.
In the Philippines, rivers like Mayuboc are grouped into categories set by the DENR according to how the water is used. Each category has rules that determine the level of cleanliness the river must meet.
A higher category requires cleaner water so it remains safe for farming, fishing, recreation, or even future water supply. Updating the river’s classification also helps strengthen clean-up efforts, improve pollution control, and support its long-term protection.
Mayor Dexter L. Sayat stressed that protecting the Mayuboc River is vital for food security, household needs, and the town’s stability. He reaffirmed the LGU’s commitment to pursuing measures that protect the river, improve water quality, and preserve its role as a vital community resource.
Mayor Sayat added that sustained collaboration among the community and partner agencies will be key to keeping the river resilient and productive in the years ahead. He expressed confidence that a united effort will help preserve the waterway that has supported Pitogo for generations.
A stronger classification is set to compel cleaner waterways, decisive environmental action, and stricter controls on activities along the Mayuboc River. It marks a pivotal opportunity to secure long-term protection for a waterway central to Pitogo’s identity and survival.
No comments