A total 29.6 million kilograms of waste were clogging various creeks and rivers in Metro Manila in 2024. Some 3.3 million kilos of trash also were floating in different waterways in Region IV-A, while many esteros of Region III were mired in 1.58 million kilos of garbage last year. But thanks to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ (DENR) army of estero and river rangers (ERR), the whole 34.5 million kilos of waste were removed. It’s a dirty job but someone’s got to do it, as the saying goes.

Their efforts go beyond statistics.

“Each kilogram of waste they remove translates to cleaner rivers, reduced flooding and safer communities,” DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga said during the ceremony honoring 2,600 ERRs from the National Capital Region, Region III and Region IV-A at the “DEAR (Dedication, Empowerment, Appreciation and Recognition) Estero and River Rangers” at the SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City on 31 January.

In recognition of the ERRs invaluable service and to inspire a culture of shared responsibility in ensuring cleaner and more sustainable waterways for future generations, 11 ERRs were bestowed the Sikap Aral Award for their academic achievements while balancing their environmental work.

Another 19 ERRs were given the Leadership Excellence Award for their innovation and leadership in waterway protection and 110 others received the Exemplary Service Award for their outstanding work in maintaining and rehabilitating Manila Bay’s waterways.

Meanwhile, 20 ERRs with disabilities received the PWD Empowerment Award, honoring their resilience and dedication to environmental advocacy.

“This day is for you. We temporarily stop our work to reflect and celebrate the extraordinary work you do every day to restore and protect what gives life to our urban and regional ecosystems,” Loyzaga said in Filipino.

The DENR chief acknowledged the estero and river rangers as the first line of defense in waste management and for working in the toughest conditions to prevent pollution and mitigate the risks of flooding.

During storms and floods, the rangers clear debris to help floodwaters subside and ensure the protection of countless communities, work that is often unseen but its impact is undeniable, she said.

Beyond their tasks, the rangers play a vital role in fostering environmental stewardship within their communities by serving as advocates, educators and role models in promoting sustainable practices at the grassroots.

“Your work is more than just removing trash and encouraging the community to properly manage waste. It is a powerful declaration of hope and determination — a signal that conservation is not just a job but a responsibility woven into our community and culture,” the secretary said.

She vowed to continue equipping estero and river rangers with the necessary resources, training and institutional support to enhance their capabilities.