The Pasig River holds a special place in the hearts of Filipinos. This waterway is steeped in historical significance that even Dr. Jose Rizal immortalized it in his novels, recognizing its vital role as a conduit for trade and commerce.
Over the years, however, urbanization and pollution have transformed the Pasig River into a symbol of government neglect, tarnishing Manila's image as urban decay sets in. Various administrations have made attempts at rehabilitating the river, from the establishment of the Pasig River Task Force during former President Fidel V. Ramos's administration to private sector initiatives like "Piso Para sa Pasig." Even the previous administration initiated a ferry system along the river, aimed at helping ease traffic in the metro. Despite these commendable efforts, much work remains before we can declare the mission accomplished.
To further this vital rehabilitation effort, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has constituted the "Inter-Agency Council for the Pasig River Urban Development (IAC-PRUD)" as a crucial step toward revitalizing the Pasig River and enhancing the quality of life along its banks.
Executive Order (EO) No. 35, issued on July 25, 2023, and signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, outlines the council's mandate, which includes "facilitating and ensuring the full rehabilitation of the banks along the Pasig River water system and nearby water systems."
The council, chaired by the Secretary of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development, and vice chaired by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority chairperson, comprises 13 member agencies. Recently, it garnered support from a very significant figure — the First Lady, Liza Araneta-Marcos.
The First Lady turned her attention to the Pasig River, just outside the Palace, which she sees every day. Until today, the busy river that flows in several cities and towns in the metropolis is still an image of improper management with its murky water and plastic debris.
President Marcos has tasked the IAC-PRUD with the goal of improving the water quality of the Pasig River to approximate Class C standards, making it suitable for fish and marine resources.
During the council’s meeting on Aug. 23, Housing Secretary Jose Acuzar welcomed the First Lady's commitment to support the cleanup and rehabilitation efforts through a project titled "Pasig Bigyan Buhay Muli (PBBM)." Mrs. Marcos shared her support on Instagram with the caption, "Para sa Pasig River natin!" as the IAC-PRUD unveiled its master plan for the extensive rehabilitation of the river. Mrs. Marcos hopes that the council would be able to transform the Pasig into a tourist attraction like the Thames in England or the Seine in France — a commerce, lifestyle, tourism and culture hub, and drawing visitors from home and overseas.
The IAC-PRUD has identified eight key areas for people-centric improvements, including jogging paths and bike lanes spanning from Manila to Rizal province, traversing major cities in the metropolis. Additionally, plans are in motion to create a Central Park at the Laguna de Bay mouth of the Pasig River, featuring installation art.
Great ideas will only remain on paper if the government does not have the resources to implement them. Now, with the support of both the President and First Lady, this substantial redevelopment along the Pasig River becomes a clearer possibility. We look forward to witnessing the day when the river's beauty is fully restored, much like how Rizal once beheld it.