ANNUAL REPORT

2013

We commit to truth and service.

 Vision
A new Pasig River clean and alive
reflecting the countrys noble history and progress.

Mission
To transform Pasig River and its environs into
a showcase of a new quality of urban life.

Goal
Restore Pasig River water quality to Class C level

The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission Annual Accomplishment Report 2013 1

 Table of Contents

About PRRC........................................................................................ 3

About Pasig River... 4

About Tributaries.. 5

Housing, Resettlement and Livelihood Program............................................... 6

Riverbanks and Transportation Development Program......................... 9

Environmental Management Program 12

Flood Control and River Protections Program.................................................... 20

Public Information and Advocacy Program ........................................................ 23

General Administration and Finance. 26

The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission Annual Accomplishment Report 2013 2

About PRRC
The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission (PRRC) was created in January 1999 by
virtue of Executive Order No. 54, as amended by Executive Order No. 65 to ensure that
the Pasig River is rehabilitated to its historically pristine condition conducive for the
propagation of fishes and other aquatic resources, transport, recreation and tourism.

PRRC is composed of representatives from various government, non-government and

private agencies organized into several Technical Working Committees in order to fully
address the different sectoral concerns of rehabilitating the Pasig River. The
membership and Technical Working Committees are as follows:

Chairperson - Ms. Regina Paz L. Lopez

Vice-Chairperson - Metropolitan Manila Development Authority
Members - Department of Budget and Management
Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Department of Interior and Local Government
Department of National Defense
Department of Public Works and Highways
Department of Finance
Department of Tourism
Department of Transportation and Communications
Department of Trade and Industry
Housing and Urban Development Coordinating
Council
Office of the Executive Secretary
Metro Manila Mayors League
ABS-CBN Foundation, Inc.
GMA Network, Inc.
Unilever Philippines

Technical Working Committees

Housing and Resettlement Committee
Riverbank, Transport and Tourism Development Committee
Environmental Management Committee
Flood Control Committee
Public Information and Advocacy Committee

The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission Annual Accomplishment Report 2013 3

About Pasig River

T he Pasig River is a 27-kilometer river which traverses the cities of Manila, Makati,
Mandaluyong, Pasig, Taguig, and the Municipality of Taytay in the Province of Rizal
(Figure 1). It serves as the only outlet that drains excess water from the landlocked
Laguna de Bay to Manila Bay.

Way back in the early 1990s, Pasig River is one of the polluted rivers in the Philippines
as characterized by murky and foul odor due to discharges of untreated wastewater
coming from industries and informal settlers living along the easements using it as their
dumping ground for garbage, sewerage, and industrial pollution.

Bringing life back to the Pasig River, a Pasig River Rehabilitation Program was initiated
in 1993 and was continued by Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission (PRRC) created by
virtue of Executive Order No. 54 as amended by Executive Order No. 65.

Currently, the significant reduction of floating debris, and development of its riverbanks
into linear parks gave better access and view of the Pasig River. Now, the Commission is
focused in the treatment and rehabilitation of the 47 tributaries draining of the river
which continually degrading these tributaries, consequently affecting the water quality
of the Pasig River.

As of 2013, continuity of the rehabilitation and development of tributaries took place in

the cities of Manila, Quezon, and Makati. Various implementing member agencies
helped and assisted in the rehabilitation of these tributaries. Some of the current
projects of the Agency comprises with the rehabilitation and development of the
following tributaries or esteros as follows: Estero de Aviles, Estero de Balete, Estero de
San Miguel, Estero de Valencia, Estero de Sampaloc, Estero de San Sebastian, and
Estero de Concordia, including San Francisco River, Culiat Creek, Pasong Tamo Creek,
and the construction and development of Makati-Poblacion Linear Park.

Figure 1. Map of the Pasig River and its Tributaries.

The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission Annual Accomplishment Report 2013 4

About Tributaries

There are major and minor tributaries

draining to the Pasig River. These
tributaries are divided into several clusters
based on the proximity of these tributaries
within specified locations or tributaries
which are interconnected with one another.
The prioritization in the rehabilitation of
the 47 tributaries is dependent on several
factors, namely: (a) catch-basin approach,
(b) pollution loading, (c) degree of positive
impact, and (d) extent of potential risk.

As mandated by law through the issuance of EO 54, PRRC has the powers and functions
to rehabilitate not only the main river but also the tributaries or esteros that drain into
the Pasig River. To wit, Section 3 items (b) and (f) state that: (b) Ensure that the
easements provided for in the Civil Code and other related laws are observed including all
the esteros and waterways that drain into the Pasig River; and (f) Undertake civil works
for the purpose, such as dredging, clearing of structures, cleaning of the River and all the
esteros and waterways that drain into it.

To this end, the Commission under the chairmanship of the Hon. Regina Paz L. Lopez
(also the Managing Director of AFI - ABS-CBN Foundation, Inc.) initiated the
rehabilitation and development of the tributaries. By the late part of 2009, with AFI
initiatives in close coordination with the PRRC, Estero de Paco was the first tributary
which has undergone revitalization and riverfront development. This undertaken was
followed by Estero de San Miguel in 2011 with funding from the national government.
Estero de San Miguel (near Malacanang, Manila as shown in Figure 2) was the first
estero being rehabilitated by PRRC with a project total length of 1,847 linear meters.

Figure 2. The rehabilitated section of Estero de San Miguel.

The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission Annual Accomplishment Report 2013 5

Housing, Resettlement and Livelihood Program

T he Housing and Resettlement

Committee (HRC) in close
coordination with the Local Inter-
agency Committee (LIAC) and the
Livelihood Support Sub-Committee
(LSSC), is responsible for the
relocation, housing and
resettlement of qualified informal
settlers families ISFs) along the
Pasig River system.

The programs and projects in

2013 mainly focused on the following:

(a) Consultation, coordination, community dialogue and final briefing. This includes
series of consultation, coordination, and community dialogue, conducted in different
priority tributaries or esteros, informing concerned informal settlers families (ISF) of
the programs of the Agency. Final briefing is also scheduled reiterating the procedure
for the relocation activities.

(b) Census tagging and structural mapping. Census tagging is conducted to have an
accurate data of ISFs encroaching within the 10-meter and 3-meter easements which
will be affected by the rehabilitation program. Structural mapping shall follow to
know the length covered by each structure and the scope work for demolition.

(c) Site Tripping. This is one of the essential activities of the committee which allow the
affected ISFs to familiarize the amenities of the housing units (within the government
relocation sites) and its surrounding environment.

(d) Clearing of Structures. Implementation of the project starts at doable areas. Both
informal and formal structures encroaching the 10- and 3-meter easements are cleared
with the assistance from Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and
barangay officials.

(e) Social Preparations. It ensures that before relocation, the affected ISFs are socially
prepared as per guidelines and the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of RA.
7279 Urban Development Housing Act (UDHA). This activity provides every
individual to develop their sense of adaptability to their new environment.

(f) Relocation and Resettlement. This activity is closely coordinated with the Local
Inter-agency Committee (LIAC) for ISFs to have a secured and affordable socialized
housing units located within or nearby resettlement sites. Part of the relocation
program is the transportation and financial assistance scheme being extended to the
ISFs as guided by UDHA.

The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission Annual Accomplishment Report 2013 6

Social Preparation and Relocation
In terms of social preparation and relocation, majority of the activities were undertaken
in the Esteros of Aviles, San Miguel, Quiapo, Uli-Uli, Valencia, dela Reina, Culiat Creek,
and San Francisco River in close coordination with the LIAC of Manila and Quezon City.
Transportation and food assistance were given to the affected families in accordance
with the Urban Development Housing Act (UDHA). Table 1 shows the status of
relocation in 2013 in comparison to the accomplishment in 2012.

Table 1. Status of relocation.

Total Number ISFs Relocated Total ISFs Balance
Tributary of ISFs Relocated
2012 2013
Surveyed
Estero de San Miguel 1601 177 45 222 1379
Estero de Aviles 64 64 0 64 0
Estero de Quiapo 434 6 106 112 322
Estero de la Reina 418 0 265 265 153
Estero de Valencia 389 79 218 297 92
Estero de Uli-Uli 175 159 11 170 5
Estero de Sampaloc 65 0 26 26 39
Culiat Creek 144 0 83 83 61
San Francisco River 871 0 271 271 600
Punta, Sta. Ana (PMRCIP3)* 96 0 20 20 76
Grand Total 4257 485 1045 1530 2,727
* Along Pasig River

The aforesaid table shows that the percentage rate of relocation in 2013 is 25% which
represents a total number of 1,045 relocated ISFs. This indicates that there is a
substantial increase of the relocation of ISFs in 2013 (115%) compared in 2012 data.
Overall, a total of 2,727 ISFs (64%) from the 10 above listed tributaries still need to be
relocated. It can be observed that the delay of relocation in some of the tributaries is
due to preference on on-site or near-site relocation under the Peoples Plan proposal
endorsed by a group of NGOs. Figure 3 shows some of the organized social preparation
and relocation activities.

Figure 3. Social preparation and relocation.

The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission Annual Accomplishment Report 2013 7

Resettlement Site Management
PRRC is currently managing the maintenance of the two resettlement sites, namely:
Jaime Cardinal Sin Village in Punta, Sta. Ana, Manila and the Socialized Housing Project
in Villa San Isidro, Rodriguez, Rizal with 728 and 1000 units, respectively (Figure 4).

In 2013, minor repairs for the multi-purpose hall and health center were undertaken,
including the provision of street lights in Villa San Isidro resettlement site. On the other
hand, there were building repairs and roof construction in Jaime Cardinal Sin Village.

Figure 4. Resettlement sites in Sta. Ana (Manila) and Rodriguez (Rizal).

The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission Annual Accomplishment Report 2013 8

Riverbanks and Transportation Development Program

T he Riverbanks and
Transportation Development
Committee is responsible for the
establishment of Environmental
Preservation Areas (EPAs) on both of
the 10-meter sides of the Pasig River
and the 3-meter wide easements of
the tributaries through the
development of recreational linear
parks and promenades to serve as
buffer zones.

Environmental Preservation Areas

(EPAs) and Linear Park Development
To date, PRRC has developed a total of 31.1 kilometers of EPAs in the cities of Makati,
Manila, Quezon, Pasig, and Taguig. This EPAs serve as the buffer zone between the main
river and adjacent built-up areas, and to abate the illegal dumping of domestic waste.
These on-going linear park and promenade developments are located in Barangay
Poblacion, Makati City; Punta, Sta. Ana, Manila City; Pasong Tamo Creek, Culiat Creek,
and San Francisco River in Quezon City (Figure 5).

Figure 5 . EPAs and linear park development.

The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission Annual Accomplishment Report 2013 9

Table 2 shows the total length of EPAs developed and rehabilitated in the span of 13 years.

Table 2. Total length of EPAs rehabilitated and developed.

Tributary Total Length Year
(linear meters)
Main Pasig River 23,373 2000-2008
Main Pasig River 1,020 2009-2010
Main Pasig River 478.50 2011
Estero de Aviles, Estero de San Miguel 2,073 2012
Estero de San Miguel, Estero de Concordia, Estero 4,141 2013
de Sampaloc, Estero de Valencia, Pasig River
(Poblacion, Makati), Pasong Tamo Creek
Grand Total 31,085.5

Easement Recovery
Aside from the removal of ISFs along the waterways, the demolition of the formal and
private structures within the 3-meter easement along the prioritized tributaries were
also undertaken in 2013.

Table 3 shows that 11% (44) of the total identified affected physical and formal
structures were already cleared in 2013 and 17% (67) were scheduled for demolition
on the same year. However, 72% (283) of the total formal structures have not yet been
resolved due to the private entities unwillingness to waive the 3-meter easement. Some
of these structures were subjected to actual mapping and markings prior to demolition.
Table 3. Status of easement recovery.
Tributary Total # of Affected Cleared/ For Demolition Balance
Private Structures Demolished (ROW issue)
Estero de Valencia 44 22 0 (22) 22
Estero de Sampaloc 42 11 16 (15) 31
Estero de Uli-Uli 15 1 0 (14) 14
Estero de Quiapo 33 0 0 (33) 33
Estero de Balete 2 0 2 (0) 2
Estero de San Miguel 2 0 0 (2) 2
Estero de Aviles 1 0 0 (1) 1
Estero de San Sebastian 1 0 0 (1) 1
San Francisco River (P1) 116 7 49 (60) 109
Culiat Creek (P1) 62 2 0 (60) 60
Pasong Tamo Creek (P1) 76 1 0 (75) 75
Grand Total 394 44 67 (283) 350

Figure 6 shows the areas where the 3-meter easements were already recovered in 2013.
Some of the sections of these esteros/tributaries have pending issues in relation to
survey and markings as well as coordination with concerned government agencies prior
to demolition.

The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission Annual Accomplishment Report 2013 10

 Figure 6. Removal of formal structures along tributary.

Pasig River Ferry Service

The operation of the ferry service was suspended in January 2011 due to the poor
management of the operator. Thus, only minimal maintenance was done in 2013 for all
the stations which covers the provision for the security and janitorial personnel to
protect the property and premises and maintain the cleanliness of the area. The
existing ferry stations are as follows: Plaza Mexico, Escolta, Quezon Bridge, PUP, Sta.
Ana, Lambingan, Valenzuela, Hulo, Guadalupe, and San Joaquin Figure 6 shows some of
the existing ferry stations along the main Pasig River.

Figure 7. Existing ferry stations along the Pasig River.

The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission Annual Accomplishment Report 2013 11

Environmental Management Program

The Environmental Management

Committee (EMC) has performed various
functions aimed towards improving
water quality for a cleaner and healthier
environment, such as: (1) conducting
regular water quality monitoring
activities to determine the impact of the
rehabilitation efforts and interventions
implemented for the Pasig River and its
tributaries, (2) determining, applying,
implementing and evaluating
technologies which can help improve the
water quality of the River system, and
(3) preparing requirements to acquire
environmental clearances from concerned agencies.

Pasig River Unified Monitoring Stations (PRUMS)

Under the PRUMS initiative, there were 14 stations covered in water quality monitoring
on a monthly basis. These established stations (8 stations upstream and 6 downstream,
Table 4) along the main waterways of Pasig River are as follows: C6 Bridge, Bambang
Bridge, Vargas Bridge, Marikina Bridge, Buayang Bato, Guadalupe Ferry Station,
Guadalupe Nuevo, Guadalupe Viejo, Sevilla Bridge, Lambingan Bridge, Havana Bridge,
Nagtahan Bridge, Jones Bridge, and Manila Bay.

Figure 8. PRUMS sampling and monitoring activities.

The water samples were tested and analyzed for physico-chemical, heavy metals and
bacteriological parameters, and were compared to the allowable limits set in the DENR
Ambient Water Quality standards.

The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission Annual Accomplishment Report 2013 12

 Table 4. Water quality level in the PRUMS.
BOD mg/L Total Coliform MPN/100ml
Station Annual Average Annual Average
2012 2013 2012 2013
C6 Bridge 11.50 10.25 5.78E+05 2.87E+06
Bambang Bridge 10.08 15.17 1.18E+06 2.80E+07
Vargas Bridge 20.50 34.00 2.09E+06 5.48E+07
Marikina Bridge 7.33 14.92 9.35E+05 2.43E+07
Buayang Bato 56.00 70.83 1.29E+08 7.79E+09
Guadalupe Ferry Station 8.00 12.92 8.39E+06 1.28E+07
Guadalupe Nuevo 49.17 73.83 7.80E+07 3.40E+08
Guadalupe Viejo 34.67 49.67 2.44E+07 8.20E+08
Sevilla Bridge 37.92 53.33 7.23E+07 6.90E+07
Lambingan Bridge 11.00 11.75 1.30E+07 5.58E+06
Havana Bridge 54.08 91.08 1.71E+08 3.00E+08
Nagtahan Bridge 9.83 19.43 4.23E+06 8.21E+06
Jones Bridge 8.08 12.50 1.95E+06 7.67E+06
Manila River 5.08 7.17 3.77E+06 1.36E+06
Note: 1.0E+06 is equivalent to 1 million

Based on the monitoring report, it indicated that both BOD and total coliform did not
improve in 2013. It shows that 2013 levels were higher than the previous year. BOD
levels in Buayang Bato, Guadalupe Ferry Station, Guadalupe Nuevo, Guadalupe Viejo,
Sevilla Bridge, and Havana Bridge registered the highest results, while samples taken
from Havana Bridge, Guadalupe Viejo, Gudalupe Ferry Station, and Buayang Bato got the
highest levels in total coliform.

Furthermore, the test results also showed that the fecal coliform, phosphate, cadmium
lead concentrations increased compared to the 2009 reference data. Thus, the water
quality condition continued to deteriorate due to the untreated domestic and industrial
effluents continuously discharged to the Pasig River.

Aside from these stations, quarterly water sampling and monitoring were done in
prioritized tributaries (Table 5). These tributaries include Esteros of San Miguel, Aviles,
Valencia, Sampaloc, Quiapo, San Sebastian, Paco, Concordia, Balete, and Santibaez;
creeks of Pasong Tamo and Culiat, and San Francisco River. The number of sampling
station per tributary is based on the length of the tributary, ranged from 2 to 6 sampling
stations.

The water analysis showed that majority of the sampling areas have recorded higher
annual average BOD levels in 2013 compared to 2012 data particularly in Esteros
Quiapo, Valencia, Sampaloc, Concordia, Balete, and Santibaez. Some BOD reductions
were observed in Estero San Sebastian, Pasong Tamo Creek, Culiat Creek, and San
Francisco River.

The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission Annual Accomplishment Report 2013 13

Moreover, half of the total number of sampling stations also recorded higher levels of
Total Coliform in 2013 particularly tributaries in Quezon City area. Overall, all stations
still unsuccessful to meet the DAO 34 BOD and Total Coliform standard levels in 2013.

Table 5. Water quality level in selected tributaries.

BOD mg/L Total Coliform MPN/100ml
Tributary Annual Average Annual Average
2012 2013 2012 2013
Estero de Aviles 30.1 39.4 6.20E+10 8.54E+07
Estero de Quiapo 52.7 80.1 8.71E+08 1.45E+08
Estero de San Sebastian 47.3 44.0 6.40E+07 6.10E+07
Estero de Valencia 23.0 80.7 3.60E+09 1.04E+10
Estero de Sampaloc 19.7 43.2 1.21E+08 2.49E+08
Estero de Uli-Uli 20.7 30.3 5.94E+07 2.14E+07
Estero de Concordia 32 53.6 - 4.77E+07
Estero de Balete 19.3 47.5 1.02E+08 2.02E+08
Estero de Provisor 12 - 5.40E+05 -
Estero de SantiBanez 18.6 33.3 - 1.79E+07
Pasong Tamo Creek 59.2 34.1 2.51E+08 5.48E+08
Culiat Creek 48.7 45.2 2.01E+08 3.12E+09
San Francisco River 55.7 42.3 2.87E+08 2.48E+10

Liquid Waste and Bioremediation Technologies

In terms of liquid waste/wastewater management, the PRRC has employed different
bioremediation technologies and biodiversity approaches (Figure 9) to suitably address
the needs of the prioritized tributaries. Table 6 summarizes the tributaries where the
technologies and approaches have been applied.

Table 6. Bioremediation technologies in selected tributaries.

Tributaries Bioremediation Technologies
Surface Artificial Island Reactor (SAIR)
Estero de Paco WWETCO Bio-Flex Filter
Ecosystems Approach: Constructed Wetlands (in Apacible)
Estero de San Miguel Poly-glu and Bio-colony (coated with Bacillus subtilis)
Estero de Santibaez Bokashi Pilot Test Project
Estero de Aviles Biochar Application with Effective Microorganism Activated
Solution (EMAS)

Surface Artificial Island Reactor. SAIR is one of the bioremediation technology

interventions implemented in Estero de Paco with the full cooperation with the
Biomatrix Water Technology and Kapit Bisig Para sa Ilog Pasig (KBPIP). Almost two
years of monitoring in three stations was conducted to determine the effectiveness of
SAIR in the water quality of the estero. Within that period, a number of parameters
were monitored and the results showed that out of the 13 parameters, only four

The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission Annual Accomplishment Report 2013 14

parameters (TSS, surfactants, chromium and mercury) showed that the technology is
effective or it passed DAO 34 Class C standard. Thus, SAIR technology shows minimal
effect in the water quality of Estero de Paco due to uncontrollable season (temperature
level), water flow, and other external factors.

Figure 9. SAIR Project in Estero de Paco

Wastewater System with Bio-colony and Poly-glu. This is a collaborative effort with
Wise Japan International (WJP), a wastewater/sewage treatment system was installed
in Estero de San Miguel (Figure 10). This system specifically designed to treat a portion
of the estero near Mendiola LRT station (Manila) using a mineral-based flocculant, Poly-
glu and a zeolite coated with Bacillus subtilis, Bio-colony. This mineral-based flocculant
helps reduce the pollutants in the water and also destroys colloidal sediments, while the
Bio-colony is used to degrade the by-products resulting from treatment.

Based on the water quality results, there was a significant improvement in DO, BOD,
COD, TSS, Phosphate, Ammonia, Surfactant, Cadmium, Lead, Total Coliform and Fecal
Coliform levels. Levels of Mercury, Chromium, Arsenic, Cyanide, Chloride, Nitrate,
Phenols, pH and Oil Grease met the Class C level standard. Overall, the treatment
system showed a significant reduction of 51% in the average BOD level.

Figure 10. WJP Treatment System.

The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission Annual Accomplishment Report 2013 15

WWETCO Bio-flex Filtration System. This is another pilot project implemented through
the assistance of First Envirotech Alliance Corporation using the WWETCO Bio-Flex
Filtration System (Figure 11). Installed in Estero de Paco, the pilot project aimed to
reduce up to 85% and 70% in the TSS and BOD levels, respectively. The results showed
an average reduction of 25% in the five parameters: BOD, COD, Ammonia, Nitrogen and
Phosphorus. The effectiveness of the treatment system with flexi-balls requires a longer
period of test/operation to achieve desirable results with substantial reduction in BOD
and TSS levels.

Figure 11. WWETCO Bio-Flex Filtration System.

Construction of Wetlands. Part of the research project entitled: Biodiversity

Assessment of Pasig River and its Major Tributaries contracted to the Ecosytems
Research and Development (ERDB), the construction of mini wetlands in selected
drainage canals of Estero de Paco was implemented (Figure 12). The initial findings
indicated that there was a significant reduction of BOD and improvements in the levels
of Phosphate, pH, and DO. Specifically, out of the 18 parameters monitored, only five
parameters passed the national standards, namely: oil and grease, arsenic, copper,
chromium, and mercury while the rest of the parameters failed to meet the allowable
limits. This intervention project is also replicated in Estero de Valencia, consequently to
the rest of the esteros if proven sustainable and effective.

Figure 12. Constructed wetland in Estero de Paco.

The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission Annual Accomplishment Report 2013 16

Bokashi Balls and Biochar Application. Another pilot project implemented in Estero
de Santibanez (Figure 13) in partnership with KBPIP is a bioremediation technology
using Bokashi Balls/Mabuhay Balls a natural beneficial microbes formulated by a
renowned horticulturist, Dr. Teruo Higa of the University of Ryukyus, Japan. The water
quality in the estero was monitored on a monthly basis for six months.

The laboratory results for the first water sampling showed that after one month, nine
parameters (oil and grease, nitrate, phenolic substances, chloride, arsenic, chromium,
cyanide, lead and mercury) were within the limits of DAO 34 Class C standards.
However, BOD, DO, surfactant, phosphate, cadmium and total coliform failed to meet the
allowable water quality limits.

Aside from the microbial application, a Biochar material with Effective Microorganism
Activated Solution (EMAS) was introduced in Estero de Aviles to improve water quality.
The material is made from charcoal using pyrolysis (a process of burning with minimal
oxygen) of organic matter and has claimed that it is the most effective way of removing
carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere.

The water analysis showed that out of 20 parameters, 17 parameters have decreased
concentration levels after three months of monitoring. These are BOD, pH, COD, oil and
grease, TSS, nitrate, phosphate, ammonia, surfactant, phenolic substances, chloride,
copper, arsenic, cadmium, mercury, total coliform and fecal coliform. On the other hand,
chromium and lead increased while DO remains zero.

In comparison with DAO 34 Class C standard, 11 out of 18 parameters passed TSS, oil
and grease, nitrate, phenolic substance and chloride were the parameters passed in
physico-chemical category whereas arsenic, cadmium, chromium, mercury and copper
from heavy metals group. However, the bacteriological parameter, total coliform still did
not meet the allowable limit for Class C.

Towards finding innovative ways in water quality improvement with bioremediation

technologies, in collaboration with the Philippine Biochar Association, a short training
course was conducted aimed to learn the process of making the Bokashi Balls with
Biochar. This training program also introduced the potential source of livelihood from
Bokashi with Biochar in domestic wastes, agricultural fertilizers and feeds, and in
cleaning bodies of water.

The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission Annual Accomplishment Report 2013 17

 Figure 13. Bokashi Balls and Biochar Applications.

Outfalls Validation. As part of the University of the Philippines-Pasig River Tributaries

Survey and Assessment Study (UP-PRTSAS), outfalls validation was also conducted in
two tributaries, namely: Estero de Sampaloc and Estero de Valencia. A set of criteria
was also established to prioritize outfall bioremediation projects. The criteria are as
follows: size of the culvert, BOD concentration, and volume of discharge. The main
objective of the validation activity is to come up with the lists of priority outfalls that
can be used as pilot areas for the bioremediation technology application.

Overall, despite the PRRCs continuous interventions for the tributaries, some of which
showed potential improvements with regard to water quality monitoring and
management (as shown by the results from constructed wetland bioremediation
technologies), the Pasig River and piloted tributaries did not pass majority of the
parameters set in the Class C Standard of DAO 34.

Solid Waste Management

The involvement of the community in solid waste management was fully
institutionalized through the establishment of River Warriors in 2010. River warriors
refer to the group of concerned individuals from the community who are assigned to
habitually clean their nearby tributaries maintaining the cleanliness and orderliness
and protect these tributaries from any form of degradation (e.g., water pollution due to
dumping of wastes). These volunteers on boats also patrolling the tributaries for trash
or other forms of waste, and scoop them for proper disposal. Infrastructure
development in the tributaries would be basically ineffective if residents themselves
remain indifferent and continue to neglect their responsibilities towards their
respective tributaries.

The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission Annual Accomplishment Report 2013 18

Through this program and with the cooperation of the River Patrol team, a total of
29,041 sacks of solid wastes were collected in 2013 as shown in Table 7. This
represents a higher volume of solid waste collection compared in 2012 (19,520 sacks).
However, this increase in collection was brought by the additional tributaries covered
for the period of 2013. Aside from the main Pasig River (11.5%), Estero de la Reina
(22%), Estero de San Miguel (9.9%), Estero de Pandacan (9.3%), and Estero de
Sampaloc (7.5%) got the highest share of garbage collection.

Table 7. Number of sacks of solid wastes collected.

2012 2013
Tributary/Estero
(in sacks) (in sacks)
Estero de San Sebastian 1206 1401 4.8%
Estero de Sampaloc 1189 2188 7.5%
Estero de Uli-Uli 563 67 0.2%
Estero de Aviles 943 185 0.6%
Estero de San Miguel 1425 2880 9.9%
Estero de Quiapo 2132 1720 5.9%
Estero de Pandacan 1459 2694 9.3%
Estero de Concordia 1820 1309 4.5%
Estero de Santibaez - 30 0.1%
Estero de Binondo - 2217 7.6%
Estero de San Lazaro 30 870 3.0%
Estero de Magdalena 805 1043 3.6%
Estero dela Reina 839 6402 22.0%
Estero de Valencia 326 385 1.3%
Maytunas Creek - 638 2.2%
Ermitanyo Creek 622
Kalentong Creek - 300 1.0%
Estero de Balete 70 - -
Pasig River - 3334 11.5%
San Juan River 6185 635 2.2%
Manila Bay 200 - -
Baseco 278 - -
Marikina River 50 - -
Lawton Ferry Station - 121 0.4%
TOTAL 19,520 29,041 100%

Figure 14 shows areas where these solid wastes collected.

Figure 14. Deployment of River Patrol for various clean-up activities

The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission Annual Accomplishment Report 2013 19

Flood Control and River Protection Program

The Flood Control Committee

undertakes structural and non-structural
measures necessary in the rehabilitation
and development of the Pasig River and
its tributaries. It also handles the civil
works, for the construction, rehabilitation
and maintenance of the infrastructures
related to flood control and river
protection.

Slope Protection and Dredging Projects

Aside from the establishment of
Environmental Preservation Areas (EPAs) to enhance the functionality of the
waterways for access, transport, recreation, and tourism, several projects are
implemented for slope protection/riprapping, dredging and desilting along the main
river. The completion of the Pasig River Dredging Project (PRDP) in the last quarter of
2010 is a significant effort in the removal of 2.83 million cubic meters of contaminated
materials in the Pasig River. This undertaking is fully supported by the government
through EO 717 issued in March 2008 as a presidential priority project.

Three additional tributaries were obligated for rehabilitation in 2013, namely: Pasong
Tamo Creek, Culiat Creek and San Francisco River. Components of these locally-funded
projects include dredging and desilting, slope protection and bank improvement, linear
park development, and water quality improvement. Table 8 provides the summary
status of these projects, including the allotted budget for dredging, slope protection and
bank improvement components. Figures 15-18 show the sections of the different
esteros before and after the rehabilitation. The main reason of delays for the
rehabilitation of these tributaries was due to the right of way (ROW) issue.

Table 8. Status of projects with dredging, slope protection and bank improvement components.
Tributary Allotment Project Length Percent Status/Issue
(Php) (linear meter) Accomplishment
Estero de San 8,617,000 1,847 58% Delayed due to right
Miguel of way
Estero de San 4,108,091 316 75% Partially suspended
Sebastian due to right of way
Estero de 3,532,623 769 70% Partially suspended
Balete due to right of way
Estero de 15,811,198 1,034 73% Delayed to the
Sampaloc installation of the
solar light and right

The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission Annual Accomplishment Report 2013 20

 of way
Estero de 15,958,641 1,098 75% Puchlisting and
Valencia turn-over
Estero de 5,918,000 1,071 65% Suspended and for
Concordia contract
termination;
delayed due to right
of way
Pasong Tamo 71,257,381 1,183 0% Suspended due to
Creek right of way
San Francisco 131,050,751 1,100 0.4% Suspended due to
River right of way
Culiat Creek 69,821,506 1,089 0% Suspended due to
right of way
Total 195,024,440 9,962

The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission Annual Accomplishment Report 2013 21

 Figure 15. Rehabilitation and development of Estero de Paco.

Figure 16. Rehabilitation and development of Estero de San Miguel.

Figure 17. Rehabilitation and development of Estero de Valencia.

Figure 18. Rehabilitation and development of Estero de Sampaloc.

The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission Annual Accomplishment Report 2013 22

Public Information and Advocacy Program

The Public Information and Advocacy

Committee (PIAC) is continuously promoting
the efforts of the Government, specifically the
Office of the President and PRRCs member-
implementing agencies in the efforts to
rehabilitate the Pasig River and its
tributaries towards creating a high level of
public awareness and gain the needed public
support for the success of the rehabilitation
and development program.

Partnership with Academic Institutions

One of the strategies employed by PRRC towards improving public awareness and
cooperation is forming partnerships with various academic organizations. PRRC
perceived that academe plays an essential role in assessing the outcomes and impacts of
the PRRCs programs, projects and activities in which essential components such as the
environment, economy, peace and order, health and happiness are inculcated in the
community.

Some of the academic institutions involved in the program include the following (Figure
19): Cluster 1: Arellano University, Claro M. Recto High School, College of the Holy
Spirit, San Beda College, Centro Escolar University, Far Eastern University, Geronimo
Santiago Elementary School, National Teachers College, National University, Ramon C.
Avancea High School, Samson Institute of Technology, V. Mapa High School,
Technological Institute of the Philippines, Eulogio Amang Rodriguez Institute of Science
& Technology (EARIST), Sta. Catalina College, ABE International Business College,
University of the East, University of Manila, Saint Rita College, San Sebastian College,
and Saint Jude Catholic School. For Cluster 2: Justo Lukban Elementary School, Paco
Catholic School, Paco Citizen Foundation Academy, Carlos P. Garcia High School,
Concordia College, St. Joseph School, St. Peter the Apostles Schools, Sta. Isabel College,
Philippine Normal University, Technological University of the Philippines, and Adamson
University. And finally for Cluster 3: Miriam College, New Era University, University of
the Philippines, and Ateneo de Manila University.

As part of these active involvement of the academe in Cluster 2 particularly in Estero de

Paco, it is noteworthy to mention is the Active Community Engagement (ACE) Model of
Adamson University which involves waste management activities of the different
sectors in the community into a strategic community based eco-management approach.
This includes the active involvement of the four sectors of society: community
members, business/ commercial establishments, local government unit, and non-

The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission Annual Accomplishment Report 2013 23

government organizations in collaborative and inter-connected projects towards the
rehabilitation of Estero De Paco.

PRRC is also coordinating closely with its partner agencies to come up with various
programs and activities aimed towards promoting the rehabilitation efforts for Pasig
River and its tributaries. Table 9 enumerates the major accomplishments of PIAC for
2013.

Figure 19. Partnering and collaborative activities with various academic institutions.

Majority of these activities include IEC campaigns for priority tributaries in Quezon City
and Manila City, including preparation of newsletter, toolkits, brochures, and activities
related to MOA signing, and estero launching/inaugurations. Consequently, these
activities aimed to promote the effort of reviving the Pasig River from its deteriorating
conditions to a vibrant river corridor conducive to living and a host to a wide range of
riverfront activities.

Table 9. PIACs various public events and activities

Conducted 71 Information, Education and Communication (IEC) Story-telling for Kids in
prioritized tributaries within Manila City and Quezon City, and along the main Pasig River
Installed 87 slogans and posters in different tributaries
Participated in four (4) PIAC meetings and nine (9) Inter-Agency Coordination Meetings
Performed 67 Clean-ups and House-to-House Information Campaigns; 59 De-clogging
Activities/ESWM Seminars for Barangays; and 46 Project Briefings and Orientations in
different prioritized tributaries
On-going IEC Toolkit for proper waste management

The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission Annual Accomplishment Report 2013 24

 One of the highlights of PIACs
accomplishment is the release of the maiden
annual issue of Ilog Natin (Figure 20). The
official newsletter publication of PRRC
contains events and projects, photo releases,
activities from private and government
sectors as well as LGUs. This maiden issue is
available for downloading from the PRRC
official website at www.prrc.gov.ph.

Figure 20. Front cover of Ilog Natin.

The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission Annual Accomplishment Report 2013 25

General Administration and Finance

W ith the present set-up, the

agency remains to be dynamic in
strengthening its existing workforce.
In 2013, there were 194 contracts of
service/job orders were approved to
augment the present set-up of 19
regular-plantilla positions as shown
in Table 10. This represents a 31%
increase from 2012 contractual
personnel contributed by job orders
for community service (26%) and
this is 83% share of the proposed
total manpower requirements of the
agency.

Table 10. Regular and contracts of service personnel and staff.

Unit/Division Regular Contractual
2012 2013 Proposed
Office of the Chairperson - 6 3 3
OED/DED 2 1 1 1
Operations
Design (Architectural) 1 3 5 12
Environmental 1 8 6 11
Housing & Resettlement 1 18 20 25
Planning/RTTD/Ferry
Service 1 16 20 28
Community Service - - 50 50
FCD 1 7 5 16
PIA/Community
Finance & Administration Organizers 1 9 13 16
Finance 2 7 7 7
Administrative 8 12 14 14
MIS 1 5 3 5
River Patrol - 30 31 31
River Warrior - 26 16 16
Total 19 148 194 235

One of the major staff developments offered to the staff is Gender and Development
(GAD) program held in the second quarter of 2013 (Figure 21). Attended by 89
participants, the seminar aimed to primarily eliminate gender differences among men
and women; to provide re-orientation of the GAD program as mandated by the
government through Joint Circular No. 2012-01 to incorporate and reflect GAD concerns

The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission Annual Accomplishment Report 2013 26

in agency performance commitment contracts, budget proposals and financial plans;
and to instill greater appreciation of the roles and relationship not only to promote
competence and efficiency but improve cooperation and harmony in the workplace.

Figure 21. GAD seminar cum team building held in Iba, Zambales.

There was an increase in the number of participants both in in-house and external
providers with the total attendees of 843 in 2013 (Table 11). This figure shows a 225%
increase from the previous year (259 attendees). However, in terms of the number of
training program and workshop, a 57% decrease in 2013 or a significant reduction for
external/ non-PRRC training programs (63%). These trainings and workshops were
focused on records management, performance management, project management,
water quality management, ecosystem, infrastructure, communication, and leadership.

Table11. Local training program and workshop attended.

Training Program and 2012 2013
Workshop
Number of Number of Number of Number of
Training Participant Training Participant
In-house Conducted 13 224 10 784
External Provider 75 35 28 59
Total 88 259 38 843

The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission Annual Accomplishment Report 2013 27

Financial Performance
For FY 2013 PRRC has Php473,341,846 total allotment broken down as shown in Table 12.

Table 12. Total Allotment FY2013.

Allotment FY 2013 Automatic Special Purpose Realignment Total
Class GAA (RA Appropriation Funds (Php) (Php)
10352) (Php) MPBF Pension and
(Php) (Php) Gratuity
Fund
(Php)
PS 10,271,000 984,000 76,50 121,346 11,452,846
0
MOOE 140,567,000 - - - (23,182,726) 117,384,274
CO 321,322,000 - - - 23,182,726 344,504,726
473,341,846

On December 9, 2013, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) approved and
released Special Allotment and Release Order (SARO) No. NCR-13-0023545, for the
realignment of funds which is part of the allotment released under ABM-NCR-13-
0000001 dated January 2, 2013 for the Package 2 of San Francisco River, Pasong Tamo
Creek and Culiat Creek projects. Table 13 shows the obligated funds for locally-funded
projects.

Table 13. Obligated allotment for locally-funded projects.

Allotment Class Programs Locally Funded Total
(Php) Projects (Php)
(Php)
PS 10,958,113.37 - 10,958,113.37
MOOE 73,539,339.36 17,958,916.80 91,498,256.16
CO 4,048,839.30 275,415,798.98 279,464,638.28
Total 88,546,292.03 293,374,715.78 381,921,007.81

The major component of the obligated amounts for FY 2013 came from the estero
projects in Quezon City namely San Francisco River, Pasong Tamo Creek, and Culiat
Creek. For the continuing appropriation from FY 2012, the agency was able to obligate
Php25,964,603.73 broken down as shown in Table 14.

Table 14. Continuing appropriation from FY 2012.

Allotment Class Continuing Appropriation, Obligated Amount
GAA FY 2012 (RA 10155) (Php)
(Php)
MOOE 69,994,899.41 17,290,512.95
CO 68,153,623.81 8,674,090.78
Total 138,148,523.22 25,964,603.73

The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission Annual Accomplishment Report 2013 28

Moving forward in 2014, the Finance and Administrative Service will focus in the
building of a database sharing and archiving, particularly in project budget
programming and the utilization of geographic information system (GIS) to allow
proper financing and procurement, high quality map generation, and effective spatial
analysis and reporting.

Overall, PRRC aims to continue in improving its workforce through various human
resources development and capacity building programs that will increase efficiency and
will ensure success in the implementation of various plans, programs and projects in
the year ahead. It is an ultimate goal of the Commission to engage its employees in
every aspect of the Pasig River rehabilitation to bring significant changes and
improvements in dealings with various contractors and government agencies; to
consequently maintain the standard of integrity and professionalism in the workplace.

The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission Annual Accomplishment Report 2013 29

 Highlights of PRRCs Performance

4,141 linear meters

Total length along the main
(106% accomplishment Pasig River and tributaries
against the target of rehabilitated
3,904 linear meters)

Total reduction of Biochemical 200% BOD reduction

Oxygen Demand from baseline for (15.6 mg/l accomplishment
the targeted area within the year against the target 25%
reduction)

69% timeliness; delays Environmental Preservation

were due to difficulty of Areas (EPAs) along Pasig River
securing the right of way and tributaries rehabilitated
(ROW) and developed on schedule

Total number of Informal 36% (1,045 families) of ISFs

Settler Families relocated were relocated in 2013

The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission Annual Accomplishment Report 2013 30

 Republic of the Philippines
PASIG RIVER REHABILITATION COMMISSION
th
5 Floor Triumph Building, 1610 Quezon Avenue, Quezon City
Tel No.: +632 926-5232, +632-926-5234 Fax No.: 926-5233
Web Address: www.prrc.gov.ph; E-mail Address: pasiglahin@yahoo.com.ph

The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission Annual Accomplishment Report 2013 31