Olivarez sets green agenda for Parañaque

MANILA, Philippines — The need for modernization is equally as important to make a city green and sustainable, Parañaque Mayor Eric Olivarez said yesterday.

“What’s the use of living in a city that has no spaces for nature? Or is easily flooded even in the slightest rain?” Olivarez said.

“Balancing progress and sustainability is a challenge that city leaders must face in these times when climate change is affecting the way all of us live,” he added.

Olivarez said he recognized the importance of creating a green city anchored on the principles of sustainability, zero-waste and cleanliness.

“Climate change is a crucial issue now. As a progressive city of more than 700,000 people and home to various businesses, we must ensure that all steps are taken to take care of the environment and keep waste off our lands and waterways,” he said.

The mayor’s “green” mission is institutionalized in his ERIC agenda: “E” for education for all; “R” for reformation of the youth through sports and culture; “I” for improvement of lives through health promotion, livelihood and housing, and “C” is care for the elderly, environment and businesses.

As representative of the city’s first district for nine years, Olivarez has filed various bills for the environment, including House Bill 371, a measure requiring parents to plant two trees for every child born to them.