DENR raps MWSS, concessionaires for violating clean water act

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) on Wednesday issued notices of violations to Metropolital Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS), Maynilad Water and Manila Water for failing to put up sufficient wastewater treatment facilities. DENR Secretary Jose Atienza Jr. made the announcement during the Earth Day celebration at the SM Mall of Asia, saying such failure contributed to the continuing degradation of the water quality of the Pasig River and Manila Bay, including the Marilao-Meycauayan-Obando River System, which ultimately drains into Manila Bay. “Under the Clean Water Act of 2004, the MWSS was mandated to provide water supply and sewerage facilities within five years since the effectivity of the law. Likewise, based on their concession agreements, both Maynilad and Manila Water were required to put up their respective wastewater treatment facilities," Atienza said. Excerpts of his statements were posted Wednesday night on the DENR website (www.denr.gov.ph). Atienza said, all three firms failed to put up sufficient wastewater treatment facilities as the water quality in Pasig River and Manila Bay remain not compliant with the DENR standards. He added that the protection of the water bodies, particularly of Manila Bay, has been promulgated by the Supreme Court in its ruling in December 2008, when it imposed a continuing mandamus on the DENR, including 10 other government agencies, to protect and restore Manila Bay. “There will be no letup in our effort to strictly enforce environmental laws as punishment is the best deterrent to violators," Atienza said. On the other hand, Atienza called on Filipinos to unite and act to preserve Mother Earth as the country’s environmental situation is worsening. He pointed out the need to devote special effort and attention to the issue of climate change and global warming, which he said, is the biggest and most threatening environmental problem facing mankind today. Atienza said President Arroyo has already been devoting every Friday to give directives on solid waste management and climate change. - GMANews.TV