The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is set to enhance the welfare and skills of estero rangers and river warriors, acknowledging their vital role in safeguarding the nation’s waterways and combating climate change. At a recent ceremony in Pasay City, DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Loyzaga honored outstanding estero rangers and river warriors, highlighting the need for increased support in their welfare, including access to training, scholarships, and healthcare.
Loyzaga announced plans to offer additional benefits, such as skills training through the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and potential scholarship opportunities. She emphasized that education would empower these workers to explore other livelihood options while continuing their environmental advocacy. The DENR is also addressing the health concerns of these workers, who face daily exposure to pollution and waste. Currently, there are approximately 2,700 estero rangers and river warriors across the country.
DENR Undersecretary Jonas Leones praised the significant impact of their work, noting that by December 2024, estero rangers had successfully removed over 1.2 million sacks of water waste, totaling 38 million kilograms, including 120,000 water lilies. Their efforts have spanned 354 waterways and 488 villages in Metro Manila. Since the program began in 2019, these rangers have played a crucial role in the rehabilitation of Manila Bay and other major river systems.
Beyond waste collection, Leones highlighted that these rangers also serve as community educators, promoting proper solid waste management and environmental responsibility. He described their contribution as invaluable, calling them environmental heroes. To further enhance their effectiveness, the DENR is considering equipping them with advanced cleanup technologies, such as trash-trap systems and water filtration solutions.
Loyzaga reiterated the DENR’s commitment to strengthening policies against illegal dumping and waste mismanagement, ensuring that these environmental frontliners receive the support they need. She stressed that as the first line of defense against pollution and climate change, these workers deserve not only recognition but also tangible improvements in their working conditions and future prospects.