Bacoor, Cavite to revive waterways for agriculture, recreation

In busy cities adjacent to Metro Manila like Bacoor, sights of creeks and esteros teeming with garbage, debris, and murky water are not uncommon. But the local government unit (LGU) of Bacoor is working to turn that around.

If the city’s dredging project goes well, local waterways will be clean enough to be used for agriculture and recreational activities like boating and fishing.

Since August 2022, the city government has been undertaking a clearing and dredging project in partnership with the Metro Manila Development Authority through Flood Control Sewerage Management Office.

The project is in response to the Writ of Continuing Mandamus to clean and rehabilitate Manila Bay, which involves clearing up structures in Cavite waterways.

"The support group for this project are the Bacoor CENRO (City Environment and Natural Resources Office) River Warriors, who have been working relentlessly even during holidays and weekends. In addition, Mayor Strike B. Revilla provided their rashguard for their safety while performing their duty," City Environment and Natural Resources Officer Rolando R. Vocalan told the Manila Bulletin.

The initiative aims to remove solid wastes accumulated in the water bodies caused by irresponsible disposal and address pollution in waterways that serve as tributaries to Bacoor Bay – a large inlet of southeastern Manila Bay.

The LGU also hopes that the project could eventually improve water quality in the city and revive Bacoor's water bodies to Class C freshwater standards

According to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Class C freshwater classification is intended for the propagation and growth of fish and other aquatic resources; for secondary contact recreation such as boating and fishing; and for agriculture, irrigation, and livestock watering.

The LGU's dredging project covers all major riverways, waterways, and tributaries in the city. So far, the clearing operation has begun in Barangays Salinas III and IV, Molino IV and V, Habay I, and Panapaan IV.