PH seeks $20 million UAE grant for Pasig River rehab

The Philippine government is moving forward with efforts to restore the Pasig River after the Department of Finance (DOF) endorsed a proposed $20-million (approximately 1.2-billion pesos) grant from the United Arab Emirates to support a major rehabilitation and waste management program on Thursday, Nov. 5.

The proposed funding will support the Pasig River Restoration Project, which aims to cut plastic and organic waste flowing into the river system by 25% within five years.

The Department of Finance has endorsed the grant proposal to the Office of the President and is seeking authority to negotiate an agreement with the UAE government, the Philippine News Agency (PNA) reported.

Planned interventions include waste interception and recovery, household waste segregation and collection, improved waste processing systems, support for informal waste collectors, and stricter enforcement against illegal dumping.

Unlike loans, grants do not require repayment, making the proposed assistance a potential source of financing for long-term environmental programs.

Finance Secretary Frederick Go welcomed the proposed partnership, saying the assistance would help strengthen waste management efforts and contribute to improving the quality of life of communities along the river system.

Once approved, the DOF will coordinate with relevant government agencies and the UAE government to finalize the terms of the agreement and move forward with project implementation.

The agency said the proposal reflects the Marcos administration's efforts to secure international support for sustainable development initiatives that deliver long-term environmental and social benefits.

Paraluman News with a report of Anna Leah Gonzales/Philippine News Agency