By Kenneth Marcos 
Inside a busy classroom in Muntinlupa City, dozens of young students listened closely as environmental workers spoke about rivers, waste, and the value of clean water. For many of the Grade 6 pupils, it was more than just a school activity. It was a chance to learn how their small daily actions can help protect the environment.
As part of the global celebration of World Water Day, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Metropolitan Environmental Office (MEO) – South conducted a “Dalaw Turo” educational program on March 12 at Muntinlupa Elementary School. Around 75 participants, mostly Grade 6 students, joined the activity aimed at raising awareness about water protection, proper waste management, and environmental responsibility.
The program began with a message from Mrs. Delia B. Tanseco, Teacher Master II at the school, who thanked DENR MEO–South for choosing Muntinlupa Elementary School as the venue for the learning activity. She emphasized that programs like this are important in helping young students understand their role in protecting the environment and managing waste properly.
World Water Day, observed every March 22, is an international campaign that highlights the importance of freshwater and the need to manage water resources responsibly. In the Philippines, the observance often includes community education, clean-up drives, and environmental awareness programs.
During the event, DENR personnel introduced the students to Estero Rangers from Barangays Poblacion, Tunasan, and Bayanan. These volunteers work with local communities to monitor and help protect waterways, especially creeks and esteros that connect to larger river systems.
Mr. Mark Depalac, an Estero Ranger from Barangay Bayanan, shared a short message with the students about the importance of caring for rivers and waterways. He explained that their work includes monitoring waste in esteros, supporting clean-up efforts, and encouraging residents to follow proper waste disposal practices.
The educational discussion continued with presentations from environmental officers. River Protection Aide Bonifacio M. Galvinez Jr. explained the key points of DENR Administrative Order No. 2021-39, which outlines guidelines and actions for river protection and environmental management.
Information Associate Mary Jobelin D. Malilang also discussed Republic Act No. 9003, known as the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000. She explained how proper waste segregation, recycling, and responsible disposal can reduce pollution in rivers, esteros, and coastal areas.
Students also learned about climate change and how environmental problems such as flooding and water pollution are often connected to improper waste disposal and damaged ecosystems. The discussion highlighted the role of young people in helping communities adopt better environmental habits.
The activity became more lively through an interactive discussion. Students eagerly answered questions, shared their thoughts, and discussed simple ways they can help protect the environment in their homes and communities.
Programs like “Dalaw Turo” are part of DENR MEO–South’s continuing effort to educate communities about environmental protection. The initiative also supports the ongoing rehabilitation of Manila Bay, one of the country’s most important coastal ecosystems.
Through education and awareness, government agencies hope that young Filipinos will grow up with a stronger sense of responsibility toward nature. By learning early about waste management, water protection, and climate action, students can become future leaders in protecting the country’s environment.
As World Water Day approaches, the message shared with the students remains simple but powerful: every drop of water matters, and every person has a role in protecting it.
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