On June 30, 2019, the Quezon City government reinforced its commitment to protecting the environment by warning business firms against violating the anti-dumping law. Businesses that illegally dump waste into waterways were threatened with strict penalties, including permit revocation. Congressman Allan S. Reyes, alongside Cong. Victor Ferrer Jr. urged the Business Permit and Licensing Office (BPLO) and other concerned agencies to intensify enforcement efforts against establishments guilty of illegal waste disposal.
Holding Businesses Accountable for Water Pollution
While informal settlers are often blamed for water pollution, Congressman Allan S. Reyes asserted that the bigger culprits are industrial firms, restaurant owners, and hotels that illegally dump their waste into rivers and drainage systems.
“It is wrong to blame the country’s water pollution solely on informal settlers. Large businesses, which are well-established and financially capable, should be held more accountable,” Congressman Allan S. Reyes stated.
He emphasized that these business entities should be fully compliant with waste management regulations and should not prioritize profit over environmental sustainability.
Public Responsibility in Preventing Flooding
While pushing for stricter penalties on violators, Congressman Allan S. Reyes also urged Quezon City residents to take responsibility for their waste disposal practices
- Irresponsible garbage disposal leads to clogged drainage systems and severe flooding, especially during the rainy season.
- Citizens should not rely solely on the government to keep waterways clean.
- A collective effort is necessary to maintain flood-free and sanitary living conditions.
“Flooding has been a national concern for decades, and the indiscriminate dumping of garbage is a major cause of this problem. Every resident must do their part in keeping Quezon City clean,” Congressman Allan S. Reyes added.
QC Government’s Environmental Efforts
The Quezon City government has been proactive in implementing environmental programs aimed at cleaning and maintaining the city’s waterways.
- Clean-up drives along key rivers such as Tullahan, Marikina, Dario, and San Juan have been routinely conducted.
- QC Environmental Protection and Waste Management Department leads regular clean-up operations, especially before the rainy season.
- City Ordinance 1506-2005, which amended Ordinance 6305-65, strictly prohibits dumping garbage in rivers, creeks, and other drainage outlets.
Flood Control and Relocation Initiatives
To further mitigate flooding, the city government has also relocated informal settlers living in high-risk areas near rivers and creeks.
Relocation efforts ensure that:
- Families are moved to safer, government-provided housing.
- Waterway clean-ups can be conducted more effectively.
- Future encroachments in flood-prone areas are prevented.
The Supreme Court’s Writ of Mandamus states that houses should be at least three meters away from esteros and minor rivers, while larger rivers require a ten-meter clearance.
This ruling was reinforced by the landmark Supreme Court decision in MMDA and DENR vs. Concerned Residents of Manila Bay (G.R. Nos. 171947-48), which ordered government agencies to clean up and rehabilitate Manila Bay and other affected water bodies.
A Long-Term Vision for a Cleaner Quezon City
Environmental protection is a shared responsibility between the government, businesses, and the public. The Quezon City government, through Congressman Allan S. Reyes’ leadership, continues to push for stronger environmental policies and strict implementation of anti-dumping laws to preserve the city’s waterways. With sustained efforts, Quezon City can set an example for other Metro Manila areas in achieving cleaner rivers, flood-free streets, and responsible waste management.
A Call to Action
- Business establishments must strictly comply with waste disposal regulations to avoid heavy penalties.
- Residents should practice proper waste segregation and disposal to prevent clogging of drainage systems.
- Community cooperation is key to protecting the environment and reducing the risk of flooding.
Through strong policies, effective enforcement, and public participation, Quezon City can achieve sustainable urban development and environmental protection.
#YESnaALL | #YESerbisyo | Sama-Samang Asenso, Walang Kampo-Kampo!
