QUEZON CITY (PIA) -- In a move to address the urgent need for the rehabilitation and enhancement of the Pasig River, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. formed the "Inter-Agency Council for the Pasig River Urban Development." This council, as outlined in a recently issued Executive Order (EO) No. 35, will be responsible for overseeing the full rehabilitation of the Pasig River water system and nearby water systems.

Under the leadership of the Secretary of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), the inter-agency council will work closely with the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairperson and 13 other member agencies, including the DPWH, DENR, DILG, DOT, DOTr, DOF, DBM, NHCP, NCCA, PPA, PCG, LLDA, and TIEZA.

The primary objective of the council is to facilitate and ensure the comprehensive rehabilitation of the Pasig Riverbanks system and nearby water systems. In addition, the council will develop a Pasig River Urban Development Plan and coordinate its implementation.

To guarantee compliance with the easements provided under RA 386 (Civil Code of the Philippines) and other relevant laws, the council will enforce these regulations. It will also study, prepare, and implement a comprehensive shelter plan for the relocation of informal settlers.

In order to secure the necessary resources for the rehabilitation efforts, the council is authorized to accept grants or assistance from both local and foreign sources, as long as they adhere to existing laws, rules, and regulations.

Working in collaboration with national government agencies and local government units, the council will review existing Presidential issuances related to the Pasig River's rehabilitation and development. Based on their findings, they will recommend the repeal or amendment of these policies to the Office of the President.

To ensure transparency and accountability, the council is required to submit quarterly reports on the progress of the EO's implementation, allowing stakeholders to stay informed about the ongoing efforts to rejuvenate the Pasig River.

President Marcos' keen focus on the restoration of the Pasig River demonstrates the administration's commitment to improving the quality of life for all those living along its banks. With the establishment of the Inter-Agency Council for the Pasig River Urban Development, the administration aims to deliver tangible results and create a sustainable future for this iconic waterway. (PIA-NCR)