Manila's River Fight: Tackling Global Plastic Crisis

In the heart of Manila, a significant effort is underway to combat the global marine plastic pollution crisis. Workers like Xerxes Luna are actively removing hundreds of sacks of plastic waste daily from tributaries of the Pasig River. This initiative is crucial, as the Pasig River is a major source of plastic entering the oceans, contributing an estimated 6% of riverine plastics, according to a 2021 study.

The Pasig River, once a vital resource, became a dumping ground as Metro Manila expanded. Now, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has launched a renewed campaign to revive it. The government has allocated 287 million pesos ($4.9 million) for riverside beautification and established an office to coordinate rehabilitation efforts.

This revitalization project includes extending a manicured walkway along the river by 2028, enhancing tourism and economic activity. Plans are also in motion to deploy more commuter ferries to alleviate road congestion. The administration aims to cut waste in the Pasig River by 25% within four years.

International support is bolstering these efforts, with foundations like Clean Rivers committing $20 million and the ADB providing a solar-powered trash-collecting robot. While progress is being made, challenges persist, including ongoing pollution from some establishments and the need to relocate households living along the river.