By Kenneth Marcos 
Early in the morning, as vendors arranged vegetables and fresh fish inside Polo Public Market in Barangay Pulo, Valenzuela City, a different kind of activity began. Instead of bargaining with buyers, market vendors gathered to listen and learn about how their daily work can help protect Manila Bay.
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), through its Metropolitan Environmental Office (MEO)–North, conducted a “Dalaw Turo” session as part of its stronger push to support the Manila Bay Rehabilitation Program (MBRP). The activity aimed to deepen environmental awareness among vendors and market officials, and to strengthen community participation in protecting waterways that lead to Manila Bay.
During the session, DENR officials explained the agency’s mandate and gave updates on the current condition of Manila Bay. Once known for its rich marine life and scenic sunset views, the bay has long faced problems such as water pollution, untreated wastewater, and solid waste coming from rivers and esteros connected to Metro Manila.
Officials highlighted the importance of Republic Act No. 9275, or the Philippine Clean Water Act of 2004, which requires proper wastewater treatment and prohibits the discharge of pollutants into water bodies. They also discussed Republic Act No. 9003, or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000, which mandates waste segregation, recycling, and proper disposal of garbage.
Market vendors were reminded that improper disposal of waste, especially food scraps and plastic packaging, can clog drainage systems and eventually flow into rivers and Manila Bay. Simple actions, such as separating biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste, can make a big difference.
The discussion also touched on climate change and the role of wetlands in protecting communities from floods and storm surges. The activity coincided with the observance of World Wetlands Day 2026, emphasizing the need to conserve natural areas that help filter water and absorb excess rain.
Estero Ranger Jomer Salacop shared his daily experiences as a frontline worker helping maintain waterways under the Manila Bay Rehabilitation Program. He described how constant cleaning and monitoring are needed to prevent trash from building up in creeks and esteros.
Barangay Chairperson Bernadette San Jose expressed gratitude for the continued environmental education provided to the community. She said such programs help residents understand their shared responsibility in protecting natural resources.
Public Market Supervisor Emilita Dela Cruz also voiced support for the initiative. She highlighted plans to strengthen urban gardening projects in the city. Under the proposed system, biodegradable waste collected from the market can be processed into compost and used for urban gardens. This approach not only reduces garbage but also supports local food production.
The Dalaw Turo is part of the ongoing Communication, Education, and Public Awareness campaign of MEO–North. The program seeks to inform communities about environmental laws and encourage active participation in rehabilitation efforts.
The Manila Bay Rehabilitation Program continues to involve national agencies, local governments, and private groups. While progress has been made in cleanup drives and infrastructure improvements, officials stress that lasting change depends on daily discipline from communities.
For vendors at Polo Public Market, the message was clear. Protecting Manila Bay starts with simple actions inside the market. Clean surroundings, proper waste management, and community cooperation can help ensure a safer and healthier environment for future generations.
As cities grow and markets remain busy, environmental care must also grow stronger. Through education and cooperation, communities can help bring back the life and beauty of Manila Bay.
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