By Kenneth Marcos 
As government employees stood under the morning sun during the weekly flag-raising ceremony at Navotas City Hall, city officials received a recognition that highlighted years of steady work to protect the environment in one of Metro Manila’s most coastal and densely populated areas.
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources Metropolitan Environmental Office–North formally awarded the Green Legacy Award to the Navotas City government on January 26. The honor was given in recognition of the city’s strong partnership with the DENR and its consistent implementation of environmental programs through the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) Navotas.
The award recognizes Navotas’ efforts in coastal and urban environmental management, solid waste management, and active community participation in environmental protection. These initiatives were carried out throughout 2025 and were cited as models of effective cooperation between national agencies, local governments, and residents.
Leading the acceptance of the award were Mayor John Reynald Tiangco, Vice Mayor Tito Sanchez, and CENRO Head Engineer Yzabela Nazal-Habunal. They were joined by city officials and employees during the ceremony, which marked the city’s continued commitment to environmental responsibility.
According to DENR MEO–North, the Green Legacy Award is given to local governments that show long-term impact and sustainability in environmental programs. In a city like Navotas, which faces challenges such as coastal pollution, flooding, and limited land space, consistent environmental action is seen as crucial to protecting both livelihoods and public health.
Navotas has focused on strengthening waste segregation, improving garbage collection systems, and promoting recycling at the community level. The city has also worked to protect its coastal areas, which are vital to local fisherfolk and the city’s food supply. Regular coastal cleanups, environmental education campaigns, and close coordination with barangays have been key parts of these efforts.
Mayor Tiangco expressed gratitude for the recognition, saying the award serves not only as an honor but also as a reminder of the city’s responsibility to do more. He said the recognition challenges the local government to further strengthen programs that protect the environment while supporting the needs of residents.
He added that environmental protection is closely linked to food security, public health, and disaster preparedness. For a coastal city like Navotas, keeping waterways clean and managing waste properly helps reduce flooding and protects marine resources that many families depend on for income.
DENR MEO–North officials said they will continue to work closely with local governments and communities across Metro Manila. Their goal is to expand programs that promote clean, safe, and sustainable surroundings, especially in urban and coastal areas facing growing environmental pressure.
The recognition given to Navotas shows that even highly urbanized cities can make meaningful progress when local leaders and communities work together. It also highlights the importance of sustained action, not just one-time projects, in protecting the environment for future generations.
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