The DENR last week disputed a report by Oxford University’s Our World Data, which estimated that the Philippines accounts for an appalling 26 percent of all ocean plastic refuse coming from rivers worldwide, with 6 percent purportedly being contributed by the Pasig River. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources, of course, acknowledges that plastic pollution is still a serious problem insofar as the Pasig River is concerned, but such condition had gotten better in recent years, with the national government, local government units and civic organizations pitching in to help. Whether the report is accurate or not, we still have a long way to go in reviving the beauty and life of our dear Pasig River. The good news is, it can be done and it will be done. All that is needed is the consciousness, cooperation and the will of everyone to see this through.

Orbos, T. M. (2021, July 5). Pasig River: A gauge of who we are. Business Mirror, p. A8.