PNP launches Phl’s first eco-precinct

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine National Police (PNP) yesterday morning launched the country’s first eco-precinct, which will focus on arresting violators of environmental laws, particularly throwing garbage near waterways.

About four police officers from the Manila Police District (MPD) will be detailed near the Estero de Paco to help maintain the waterway, which the ABS-CBN Foundation rehabilitated.

“The main objective of this precinct (is to apprehend violators) of environmental (laws), such as throwing trash into waterways. That’s against the law but nobody is taking it seriously. So, here we are setting the bar,” said Gina Lopez, the foundation’s managing director.

Lopez said she is excited and at the same time confident that rule of law will prevail against litterbugs and illegal dwellers.

MPD director Chief Superintendent Isagani Genabe Jr. said the policemen will be assisted by the 67 “river warriors.” According to Lopez, these are residents living near the estero who have volunteered to serve as stewards of the waterway.

Genabe said the river warriors will be trained by the police and will be given arresting powers.

The setup of the P800,000 precinct was announced in 2010.