ZAMBOANGA CITY — The Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources and Energy (MENRE) has partnered with the National Power Corporation (NPC) to roll out the Adopt-an-Estero program in the island provinces of Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi.

 MENRE Minister Akmad A. Brahim said yesterday that the Adopt-an-Estero program aims to boost environmental protection in the Bangsamoro region’s coastal communities, particularly in the island provinces of Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi.

 The collaboration signifies a strategic step in adapting inland waterway conservation efforts to the unique coastal ecosystems of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. 

MENRE Minister Akmad A. Brahim and NPC president and CEO Dr. Fernando Martin Y. Roxas agreed to the Adopt-an-Estero program through the recent signing of a Memorandum of Agreement.

 Brahim highlighted the partnership as vital to protecting marine ecosystems and enhancing community involvement in coastal conservation efforts. 

He also recognized NPC’s active role in promoting environmental responsibility across the region. 

Echoing this sentiment, President Roxas affirmed, “This alliance reflects NPC’s commitment to a cleaner environment as the corporation moves toward greater use of renewable energy.”

 Tailored for coastal settings, the program will focus on regular water quality monitoring, surface clean-ups, ecological restoration through bamboo planting and riprapping and public education campaigns.

 MENRE’s Environmental Management Services will oversee coordination, monitoring and legal enforcement, while NPC will spearhead cleanup operations and mobilize local communities over the next three months.