Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga recognizes exemplary estero rangers and river warriors during an awarding ceremony in Pasay City on Friday (Jan. 31, 2025). Loyzaga said the DENR is exploring ways to enhance the benefits of the workers. (PNA photo by Yancy Lim)
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is exploring ways to improve the benefits and professional development of estero rangers and river warriors, acknowledging their crucial role in safeguarding the country’s waterways and combating climate change.
These workers, who dedicate their time and effort to cleaning and maintaining rivers, creeks, and other bodies of water, play an essential part in environmental preservation.
During a ceremony honoring exemplary Estero rangers and river warriors at SM by the Bay in Pasay City, DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Loyzaga highlighted the significant contributions of these workers and emphasized the importance of expanding support for their welfare by providing access to training programs, scholarships, and healthcare services.
According to Loyzaga, the department is considering offering additional benefits, including skills training through the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and potential scholarship opportunities. These initiatives, she explained, would not only enhance their abilities but also create pathways for alternative livelihoods while they continue advocating for environmental protection.
Beyond professional development, the DENR is assessing how to address the health risks faced by estero rangers and river warriors, who are exposed daily to pollution and hazardous waste.
Approximately 2,700 individuals nationwide work in these roles. The department recognizes that ensuring their well-being is essential to sustaining their long-term efforts in environmental conservation.
DENR Undersecretary Jonas Leones underscored the substantial impact of their work. As of December 2024, estero rangers had removed over 1.2 million waste sacks from waterways, totaling 38 million kilograms, including 120,000 water lilies.
Their cleanup operations covered 354 waterways and 488 villages across Metro Manila. Since the program’s launch in 2019, these workers have played a vital role in rehabilitating Manila Bay and other major river systems.
However, their responsibilities extend beyond waste collection. Leones pointed out that estero rangers also serve as community educators, raising awareness about proper waste disposal and environmental responsibility.
Their advocacy helps instill a culture of sustainable waste management among residents. He acknowledged their tireless dedication, referring to them as environmental heroes whose efforts are invaluable in the ongoing battle against pollution and ecological degradation.
To further enhance their effectiveness, the DENR is considering equipping them with modern cleanup technologies, such as trash-trap systems and water filtration solutions. These innovations would help improve efficiency and maximize the impact of their cleanup operations.
Loyzaga reaffirmed the DENR’s commitment to strengthening policies against illegal dumping and waste mismanagement, ensuring that environmental front liners receive the recognition and support they deserve. She stressed that as the first line of defense against pollution and climate change, these workers should be acknowledged for their contributions and provided with tangible improvements in their working conditions and future opportunities.