Wednesday, October 27, 2010

4,000 Subic volunteers join Int’l Coastal Clean-Up Day

By FRANCO G. REGALA - philippinestodayus.com

SUBIC BAY FREEPORT – Close to 4,000 residents, employees, students, and some visitors in this free port joined this year’s coastal clean-up drive here that was undertaken in support of the International Coastal Clean-Up Day and in connection with an international study on the global problem of marine trash.

The cleanup, which was held at the two-kilometer beachfront along the Waterfront Road here on Saturday, was spearheaded by the Lighthouse Marina Resort (LMR) in coordination with the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA).

The activity was also supported by the International Yachting Fellowship of Rotarians, Rotary Club of Cubao West, Philippine Marketing Association ofZambales, Moonbay Marina Complex, Subic Bay Freeport Chamber of Commerce, Greater Subic Bay Tourism Bureau, and Ideal Niche Business Solutions.

SBMA administrator Armand Arreza said the marine trash monitoring activity will help policy makers draw better solutions to the problem on marine trash, with the recorded data going to Ocean Conservancy, a non-stock, non-profit organization founded in 1972 to identify global marine threats.

He added that the clean-up drive “is a manifestation of SBMA support to activities that aim to protect and conserve the environment, particularly to keep Subic Bay free of pollution.”

A total of 3,927 volunteers scoured the stretch of the beach here, armed with sticks and trash bags to pick up litters and trash along the way.

Some local divers also collected trash in the bay, bringing to shore mostly plastic materials washed into the bay through various tributary rivers.

LMR resident manager Argee Gomez, who coordinated the event, said that the project forms part of efforts by Subic stakeholders to reduce trash and other debris at the Subic’s beachfront, which is one of the most prominent and visited areas inside the free port.

“It is imperative that a pro-active, continuous and sustainable clean-up program be put in place here,” Gomez said, pointing out that Subic Bay is considered the biggest natural asset of the of the free port.

In last Saturday’s event, Gomez said that the 3,927 volunteers in Subic collected a total of 6,075 kilos of trash from collections made in the beach clean-up and underwater dives.

In 2009, Gomez added, some 74,500 volunteers from 60 provinces collected a total of 327,345 kilos of garbage from activities that covered a total of 2,427 kilometers of beaches.

Among the worldwide participants that year, the Philippines ranked second to the United States, which had a total of 218,799 volunteers.

The International Coastal Clean-up Day started in 1986 in Texas and is being observed every third Saturday of September each year.

Aside from the clean-up drive, the Subic activity also included a public forum on conservation, climate change and waste management.

Organizers also put up a photo contest that covered the actual clean-up drive, and an exhibit of photos taken during last year’s clean-up drive.

Friday, October 22, 2010

Resolutions objecting to coal plant in subic bay

2010 R - 105 - A RESOLUTION REITERATING OLONGAPO CITY’S OBJECTION TO COAL-FIRED POWER PLANTS AS AN ENERGY SOURCE AND URGING THE PROPONENT TO CONSIDER SAFER ALTERNATIVE SOURCES OF ENERGY FOR SUBIC BAY.

http://savesubicbay.blogspot.com/2008/08/2008-r-131-expressing-city-government.html

http://savesubicbay.blogspot.com/2007/02/2007-res-no-12-inviting-ms-amethya-de.html

Sunday, September 12, 2010

Save my Bay PHOTO CONTEST

Contest Mechanics

The contest is open to both amateur and professional photographers.

  • Photos must have been taken during the competition period.
  • Participants may use any DSLR or Digital Camera.
  • Creative effects done within the camera at the time of exposure e.g. multiple exposures, flash fill, lighting, filtration, etc. are allowed.
  • 5 entries are to be submitted “of the camera” per participants, only soft copy are allowed to be submitted.
  • The competition will be held on September 25, 2010 from 6am to 11am with in the boardwalk up to Lighthouse Marina Resort coast line

Registration

  • Registration fee Php300 (part of the proceeds will go to Ocean Conservancy)
  • Loot bags will be given away on the competition.
  • Participants can register at the event proper or for pre-registration call/txt 0932-376-6800 look for David.

Submission of Entries

All entries should be submitted on or before 12 noon of the said event. 5 soft copy from each photographers Memory cards are to be submitted at the registration booth.

Prizes at Stake

1st - An overnight stay at an Aqua Suite at Lighthouse Marina Resort with breakfast and dinner

2nd – 2 hour sunset cruise over Subic Bay

3rd – Dinner for Two worth Php 2,000 at Sands Restaurant

Main Judge of the competition will be Jo Avila ( a renowned Photographer ), apart from judging the photo Jo Avila will hand pic a few photos and will work his post process magic, photos will be shown on the awarding night.

Awarding

It will be held the night of September 25, 2010 at 7 pm, venue will be at The Lighthouse Marina Resort

All entries become the property of Subictimes.com & Lighthouse Marina Resort, which will have the right to reproduce, exhibit, or publish the images for promotional purposes, indicating/acknowledging the photographer. Subictimes.com and Lighthouse Marina Resort may display the prints in a public venue, or publish them for the purpose of promoting International Coastal Cleanup, without any financial compensation to the photographers.

Monday, August 23, 2010

Save our rivers... Save Subic Bay

  • TMAC posted this in Yahoo Answers... Its a wake-up call

    "I find Olongapo, a boring city.
    For a city that prides itself on tourism, you see garbage and human waste dumped into the rivers and Ocean... the same Rivers and Ocean that they fish out of and expect the tourist to go swim and scuba diving in..."

    To be brutally frank about it... the above statement is TRUE.

    And we are not doing anything substantial about it. Panay palabas at propaganda lang, walang tunay na nagkakaisang pagkilos.

    Everyone should be involved, it will take a lot of hardwork, money and political will to accomplish this.... but we can not continue to look the other way... if we love our children and grandchildren and care for the future... WE MUST ACT NOW!!!
    over a year ago · Delete Post
  • I hope that when the PHP90M dredging/vactor equipments arrive next month, that it be the symbol of our unified action to start a concerted effort to stop and eventually reverse the deterioration of our waterways.

    The Subic Bay Waterways Council should be immediately convened and plan of action and strategies to save our rivers and Subic Bay be in place.

    The next election should focus its efforts on stopping the trash from reaching our waterways... and put an end to the usual trash political gimmickry.
    over a year ago · Delete Post
  • I totally agree with what you said Sir Ed. Our local government and NGO's should work together in order to help our City's major problem [i.e. basura, employment, out of school youth projects. and to have information/knowledge on whats really happening in our hometown and what our local politician is doing about it.
    over a year ago ·
    · Report · Delete Post
  • I agree.. Dapat mag simula sa taas pababa ang pag babago. Mag sisimula sa mamayan ng olongapoi mag mula sa namumuno at matatanda para tuluran at maisagawa ang nararapat para sa ating lunsod. Ang isang magulang na pabaya sa kaniyang sarili na may masamang gawain at ang kanilang sarili ay di maayos ay mahihirapan mag disiplina ng kanyang anak..

Sunday, August 22, 2010

Save the Trees in SUBIC BAY: SOS from the Philippines

This group is scheduled to be archived... so for posterity, i'm copying it here

An Inquirer report said it best "...another case of a foreigner trying to trample on our laws and our government allows them to do it"

Should the government allow these foreigners to cut down 360 trees(60-100 yrs old) in Subic to pave the way for a Casino - this is literally GAMBLING with the local and global ENVIRONMENT!

Let's show them that the world has eyes, and that there are people and organizations that will NOT ALLOW environmental degradation ANYWHERE on this planet.

Please post your SUBIC PHOTOS here to remind everyone of what can be lost. Don't forget to tag your friends!

Cheers!

Cec Phils We invite you to nominate individuals or organizations whose efforts to protect the environment and the people's rights are a good example for others.

Acceptance of nominations for the Gawad Bayani ng Kalikasan 2011 is open until midnight of July 15, 2011. Guidelines, awards requirements and nominations forms are available for download at http://www.cecphils.org/gawad-bayani-ng-kalikasan.

Youth Network of Environmental Advocates (YNEA)

A youth organization founded to unite the youth sector and the young populace to endeavor to protect our environment. The group; which is primarily spearheaded by the Green Badge Circle (GBC) and its Auxiliary group (GBC-A), the Eagle Scout Association of the Philippines-Olongapo Council and the Local Scouting movement in Olongapo and Zambales; is an open youth organization, a non-profit, non-stock, non-political and non-sectarian organization having LOVE FOR ENVIRONMENT as the main requirement for membership.

http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=325811497410

YNEA Symposium on Climate Change and Global Warming

With the theme “Youth Acting Together to SAVE the Environment,” Olongapo’s Sangguniang Kabataan Federation and the Boy Scouts of the Philippines-Olongapo will jointly launch the re-organization of the Youth Network of Environmental Advocates (YNEA) in the city in a symposium set on Sunday, August 8, 2010 at Saint Joseph School’s Social Hall.

YNEA is an emerging youth organization basically focused on promoting environmental consciousness and youth involvement in mitigating the ill effects of climate change and global warming in support of the government’s environmental programs.

The objective is to organize one YNEA chapter in every Barangay, in every school and every College campus in Olongapo and the Subic Bay Freeport (SBF).

With the City’s advocacy to combat climate change and global warming, Mayor James “Bong” Gordon Jr. is encouraging the youth of the city’s 17 barangays to participate in this environmental endeavor.

YNEA aims to build a network of responsible young leaders who will VOICE-OUT the concerns of the YOUTH in general. The main objective is to educate the youth about their responsibility to protect the environment, build a strong foundation of young concerned citizens and eventually inspire and push the older populace to act on important environmental concerns

Tuesday, August 10, 2010

Youth Network of Environmental Advocates


Mayor Bong Gordon speaks before the guests and participants of the Youth Network of Environmental Advocates (YNEA). The two (2)-day symposium particularly tackled Climate Change & Global Warming on August 8, 2010 at the Saint Joseph High School.

Wednesday, June 23, 2010

2010 R - 47 - REQUESTING SBMA TO ASSIST BY WAY OF ALLOCATING FUNDS OR EQUIPMENT FOR THE DREDGING OF RIVERS SHARED BY OLONGAPO CITY AND SBF

EXCERPTS FROM THE MINUTES OF THE REGULAR SESSION OF THE SANGGUNIANG PANLUNGSOD OF OLONGAPO, HELD ON JUNE 23, 2010 AT THE CITY HALL.

PRESENT:

Hon. Cynthia G. Cajudo - - City Vice-Mayor & Presiding Officer
Hon. Gina Gulanes-Perez - - - City Councilor
Hon. John Carlos G. delos Reyes- - “ “
Hon. Rodel S. Cerezo- - - - “ “
Hon. Sarah Lugerna Lipumano-Garcia - “ “
Hon. Edwin J. Piano- - - “ “
Hon. Angelito W. Baloy- - - “ “
Hon. Aquilino Y. Cortez, Jr. - - - “ “
Hon. Anselmo A. Aquino - - - “ “
Hon. Elena C. Dabu - - “ “
Hon. Jonathan G. Manalo- - - “ “
Hon. Audie S. Sundiam- - - President, Liga ng mga Barangay
Hon. Cheenee F. Hoya- - - - SK Federation President

ABSENT:

None.

RESOLUTION NO. 47
(Series of 2010)

A RESOLUTION REQUESTING SUBIC BAY METROPOLITAN AUTHORITY TO ASSIST BY WAY OF ALLOCATING FUNDS OR EQUIPMENT FOR THE DREDGING OF RIVERS SHARED BY OLONGAPO CITY AND SUBIC BAY FREEPORT

WHEREAS, the city government recognized the clear and present danger brought about by clogged and polluted waterways and there is an urgent need to dredge and revive Olongapo waterways to prevent massive flooding, severely polluted beaches and scarcity of clean water both in the city and Subic Bay Freeport;

WHEREAS, the industrialization and reclamation by SBMA and its locators contributed in the clogging of river’s mouth and pollution of Subic Bay;

WHEREAS, the city government in its vigorous campaign to protect and maintain its rivers and channels through continuous implementation of dredging operations, sees the need for SBMA, who shared rivers and channels with Olongapo, to assist by way of allocating funds or equipments for the immediate de-clogging of rivers and channels shared by Olongapo City and Subic Bay Freeport;

NOW, THEREFORE, on motion of City Councilor Edwin J. Piano, with the unanimous accord of the Members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod present;

RESOLVED, AS IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED, by the Members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod in session assembled, to request, as it hereby requests SBMA to Assist by way of Allocating Funds or Equipment for the Dredging of Rivers shared by Olongapo City and Subic Bay Freeport

Let copies of this Resolution be furnished to SBMA and DPWH for their information and record.

APPROVED UNANIMOUSLY, June 23, 2010.

CYNTHIA G. CAJUDO
City Vice-Mayor & Presiding Officer

GINA GULANES-PEREZ JOHN CARLOS G. DELOS REYES
City Councilor City Councilor

RODEL S. CEREZO SARAH LUGERNA LIPUMANO-GARCIA
City Councilor City Councilor

EDWIN J. PIANO ANGELITO W. BALOY
City Councilor City Councilor

AQUILINO Y. CORTEZ, JR. ANSELMO A. AQUINO
City Councilor City Councilor

ELENA C. DABU JONATHAN G. MANALO
City Councilor City Councilor

AUDIE S. SUNDIAM CHEENEE F. HOYA
President, Liga ng mga Barangay SK Federation President


ATTEST:

ELFLIDA S. SALMON
Council Secretary

APPROVED BY HIS HONOR, THE CITY MAYOR ON ____________________.


JAMES GORDON, JR.
City Mayor
ATTEST:

DELFIN A. JUICO, JR.
Secretary to the City Mayor

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2010 O - 15 - OLONGAPO CITY CLIMATE CHANGE ADAPTATION AND MITIGATION ORDINANCE

EXCERPTS FROM THE MINUTES OF THE REGULAR SESSION OF THE SANGGUNIANG PANLUNGSOD OF OLONGAPO, HELD ON JUNE 29, 2010 AT THE CITY HALL.

PRESENT:

Hon. Cynthia G. Cajudo - - - - City Vice-Mayor & Presiding Officer
Hon. Gina Gulanes-Perez - - - City Councilor
Hon. John Carlos G. delos Reyes- - - “ “
Hon. Rodel S. Cerezo- - “ “
Hon. Edwin J. Piano- - - “ “
Hon. Aquilino Y. Cortez, Jr. - - “ “
Hon. Anselmo A. Aquino - - “ “
Hon. Elena C. Dabu - - “ “
Hon. Audie S. Sundiam- - President, Liga ng mga Barangay
Hon. Cheenee F. Hoya- - - - - SK Federation President

ABSENT:

Hon. Sarah Lugerna Lipumano-Garcia - - City Councilor
Hon. Angelito W. Baloy- - - - “ “
Hon. Jonathan G. Manalo- - - - “ “

WHEREAS, scientists worldwide unequivocally state that the earth is warming and climate change is happening; caused in large part by human activity, such as greenhouse gas emissions from cars, power plants, and other human activities, rather than natural variations in climate;

WHEREAS, it is has been globally known and accepted that during the 20th century, the average global temperature went up by about 0.74°C or 33.33°F and in addition, the average rate of warming over the last 50 years is nearly twice that for the last 100 years (Presidential task Force on Climate Change; Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) ;

WHEREAS, in the Philippines the warmest recorded 12 years was within our lifetime, 1990, 1995, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006 (Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical Astronomical Services Administration (PAG-ASA) ;

WHEREAS, if greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions will remain at the current levels or would equal to or higher than the current level, further rise on weather and climate temperature with corresponding unparalleled changes in the global climate system in this century would occur; such as increased precipitation that could cause frequent floodings, more intense and longer droughts, annual super typhoons, rising sea levels, decreasing snow covers, melting glaciers and artic warming that also contribute to sea level rise, likewise, will affect biodiversity and ultimately the earth's natural systems and processes;

EXPLANATORY NOTE

The United Nation Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) is an international environmental treaty produced at the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED), informally known as the Earth Summit, held in Rio de Janeiro from 3 to 14 June 1992. The principal update of the said treaty was the Kyoto Protocol (November 2009), wherein the Philippines is one of the 187 states who have signed and ratified the protocol.

Article 2 of the UNFCCC specifies the ultimate objective of the Convention and states: ‘The ultimate objective of this Convention and any related legal instruments that the Conference of the Parties may adopt is to achieve, in accordance with the relevant provisions of the Convention, stabilization of greenhouse gas concentrations (GHG) in the atmosphere at a level that would prevent dangerous anthropogenic interference with the climate system. Such a level should be achieved within a time frame sufficient to allow ecosystems to adapt naturally to climate change, to ensure that food production is not threatened and to enable economic development to proceed in a sustainable manner’ (UN, 1992).

The City Government of Olongapo, in consonance with the Philippine Government, recognizes its responsibility under the UNFCCC to contribute in the worldwide effort to reduce and stabilize GHG emission and to enable a sustainable economic development.

NOW, THEREFORE, on joint motion of City Councilors Edwin J. Piano, Aquilino Y. Cortez, Jr., Gina G. Perez, Rodel S. Cerezo, Anselmo A. Aquino, Elena C. Dabu and Cheenee F. Hoya, with the unanimous accord of the Members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod present,

RESOLVED, AS IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED, by the Sangguniang Panlungsod in session assembled, to enact the following Ordinance:

ORDINANCE NO. 15
(Series of 2010)

OLONGAPO CITY CLIMATE CHANGE ADAPTATION AND MITIGATION ORDINANCE

BE IT ORDAINED, BY THE SANGGUNIANG PANLUNGSOD IN SESSION ASSEMBLED, THAT:

SECTION 1. Title. This Ordinance shall be known as the “OLONGAPO CITY CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION AND ADAPTATION ORDINANCE”

SECTION 2. Declaration of Policy and Principles of the Olongapo City Government.

A. SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT is development that meets the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. World Commission on Environment and Development (WCED) Convened by the United Nation in 1983

B. MAINSTREAMING CLIMATE CHANGE ADAPTATION MEASURES. Systematically integrate the concept of climate change in various phases of policy formulation, development plans, poverty reduction strategies and other development tools and techniques by all agencies and instrumentalities of the government.

C. COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION. Facilitate and encourage public awareness and participation by making information on climate change widely available.

D. MALASAKIT, KAPWA TAO at BOLUNTERISMO. Care for our neighbors, cooperativeness and volunteerism.

E. PEOPLE FIRST AND SUSTAINABLE FORESTRY WILL FOLLOW. That sustainable management of forest resources would only succeed through a strong partnership of the upland local communities and the City Government of Olongapo.

SECTION 3. DEFINITION OF TERMS

1. Climate Change - shall refer to a change in climate that can be identified by changes in the mean and/or variability of its properties and that persists for an extended period typically decades or longer, whether due to natural variability or as a result of human activity. (Climate Change Act of 2009)

2. Adaptation measures - The International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) defines adaptation as the, “adjustment in natural or human systems to a new or changing environment. Adaptation to climate change refers to adjustment in natural or human systems in response to actual or expected climatic stimuli or their effects, which moderates harm or exploits beneficial opportunities. Various types of adaptation can be distinguished, including anticipatory and reactive adaptation, private and public adaptation, and autonomous and planned adaptation.”

3. Mitigation measures - The International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) defines mitigation as: “An anthropogenic intervention to reduce the sources or enhance the sinks of greenhouse gases.”

4. Anthropogenic interference - interferences caused by human activity.

5. Greenhouse gases (GHG) shall refer to constituents of the atmosphere that contribute to the greenhouse effect including, but not limited to, carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, hydro fluorocarbons, per fluorocarbons and sulfur hexafluoride. (Climate Change Act of 2009)

6. Watershed - is a land area drained by a stream or fixed body of water and its tributaries having a common outlet for surface run-off (PD 705).(Forest Management Bureau, Dep’t. of Environment and Natural Resources)

7. Policy mainstreaming shall refer to the end to bring adjustments to ecological, social or economic systems in response to expected climate change impacts to ensure that food production is not threatened and to enable economic development to proceed in a sustainable manner. (Climate Change Act of 2009)

8. Structural intervention - are also often termed ‘hard’ measures as they include physical construction to reduce or avoid possible hazards, or application of engineering techniques to achieve hazard-resistance and resilience in structures or systems. Various measures available for supply side and demand side water management, disaster reduction, and agricultural production improvement are introduced. The design of these structural measures is based on the frequency, magnitude, and spatial occurrence of extreme weather events, such as floods, cyclones, and droughts.(Regional Workshop on Mainstreaming Climate Change Adaptation into Developmental Planning Asian Development Bank Institute, Tokyo, Japan)

9. Non-structural intervention - or soft measures as ‘measures that do not involve physical construction, use knowledge, practice, or agreement to reduce risks and impacts, in particular, policies, laws, public awareness raising, training and education’. These measures tend to focus on changing behaviors, methods and practices. Some examples include land-use zoning, insurance, water-use efficiency methods, and policies. There are some advantages to using non-structural over structural measures. Well planned and designed non-structural measures can minimize climate change impacts while generating additional socio-economic benefits like income, etc. (Regional Workshop on Mainstreaming Climate Change Adaptation into Developmental Planning Asian Development Bank Institute, Tokyo, Japan)

10. Global warming shall refer to the increase in the average temperature of the Earth’s near-surface air and oceans that is associated with the increased concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

11. Weather is the specific condition of the atmosphere or “actual state” at a particular place and time.

12. Climate is the “average weather” or normal state of the atmosphere and its long term variability over a particular period (say over month, a season, a year or several years).

13. Aeration is the process of adding oxygen to improve water quality which is needed by fish, aquatic animals as well as aerobic bacteria to decompose organic matter. River aeration increases the process of oxidizing or eliminating pollution. Aeration system works by using special equipment called aerators.( www.clean-flo.com)

14. Rainwater harvesting (RWH) or rainwater catchment are catch-all terms for collecting, storing, and later using precipitation from rock out-crops, roofs, and other surfaces. Harvesting rainwater offers many advantages: it conserves municipal and well water; it is free; gravity fed systems conserve energy; it is low in salts and good for plants; and it can reduce flooding and erosion. (www.HarvestH20.com)

SECTION 4. INTEGRATION OF ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT, PROTECTION AND CONSERVATION FUNCTIONS IN THE GENERAL MANDATE OF THE CITY’S ENVIRONMENTAL AND SANITATION MANAGEMENT OFFICE (ESMO).

The Olongapo City Government shall integrate the Environment and Natural Resources Development, Protection and Conservation functions in the general mandate of the Olongapo City Environmental Sanitation and Management Office (ESMO).

The ESMO shall have the additional general mandate:

1. Pro-actively implement programs, projects and activities related to Climate Change;

2. Conduct programs, projects and activities on the development, protection and conservation of the City’s environment and natural resources.

SECTION 5. COMPOSITION. The ESMO shall include personnel with expertise on the following fields:

a. Ecology conservation and development ;
b. Forestry;
c. Forest Rangers;
d. Community Organizing Specialist;
e. Agriculturist;
f. Weather and climate analyst .

SECTION 6. STRUCTURAL AND NON-STRUCTURAL ADAPTATION AND MITIGATION MEASURES. The City Government of Olongapo shall continually formulate and implement structural and non-structural Climate Change adaptation and mitigation programs and policies and shall be mainstreamed, but not limited, to the different fields and services of public administration and governance.

SECTION 7. BASIC CAPABILITY ON CLIMATE AND WEATHER READING AND ANALYSIS. The City Government of Olongapo, through ESMO, shall have the basic capability, in terms of fundamental knowledge and skills on temperature, rainfall and air quality instrument reading and on the general weather and climate monitoring and analysis.

SECTION 8. WATERSHED MANAGEMENT AND DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM. In coordination with the DENR, DAR, DOST and other related agencies, the City Government of Olongapo, through the ESMO shall implement a continuing watershed management and development program.

A. COMPONENTS. The City’s Watershed Management and Development Program shall have 2 major program components;

a. The City’s Reforestation Program and;
b. The City’s River Rehabilitation Program.

SECTION 9. THE CITY’S REFORESTATION, PROTECTION AND CONSERVATION PROGRAM. The program shall abide by the principle of the national government on reforestation of “People first and sustainable forestry will follow”. That sustainable management of forest resources would only succeed through a strong partnership of the local communities and the City Government of Olongapo.

A. CONCEPT. The City’s Reforestation Protection and Conservation Program shall implement the DENR’s Community-Based Forest Management (CBFM).

B. LAND AREA. The City’s Reforestation Protection and Conservation Program shall apply to all areas classified as forest lands by the DENR, including allowable zones within protected areas.

C. PARTICIPANTS. The City’s Reforestation Protection and Conservation Program’s main participants are local communities who are collectively considered to be forest stewards. Represented by their People’s Organization (POs) and / or Tribal Councils whose members are the following:

1. Actually tilling portions of the forest land area or traditionally using the resources for all or substantial portion of their livelihood;
2. Or residing in or adjacent to the forest land areas.

D. FOREST LAND AND RESOURCES USE . The City’s Reforestation Protection and Conservation Program will implement and follow the DENR’S CBFM policies on security of tenure and shall abide by its principle of Social Equity, which is granting forest communities specified rights to use and develop forest resources.

E. SUPPORT MOBILIZATION. The City Government of Olongapo, through the ESMO shall conduct events, forums or advocacy activities to mobilize other sectors in the City to support the WATERSHED MANAGEMENT AND DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM in whatever form, method or type of activity.

F. FORMAL PARTNERSHIP. The City Government of Olongapo, through the ESMO shall forge a strong partnership with DENR, DOST, DAR and/or other related private agencies in the provision of technology, logistical, technical, managerial and community organizing needs of the program.

G. CITY FOREST NURSERY. The City Government of Olongapo, through the ESMO shall establish and maintain a City Forest Nursery for the purpose of generating and sustaining the supply of seedlings of various types of forest trees for the City’s Reforestation Protection and Conservation Program.

SECTION 10. THE CITY’S RIVER PROTECTION AND REHABILITATION PROGRAM. In coordination with the DENR, DAR, DOST and other related agencies, the City Government of Olongapo, through the ESMO shall implement a continuing River Protection and Rehabilitation Program.

A. RIVER MANGROVE PROPAGATION PROJECT. The City Government of Olongapo, through the ESMO shall implement a continuing River Mangrove Propagation Project in the 5 major river tributaries of Olongapo City namely: Sta. River, Mabayuan River, Nagunao River, Tawirang Balete River and Jadjad River.

B. PROGRAM PHASING. The City’s River Mangrove Propagation Project shall be conducted in a gradual and periodic phasing of mangrove planting and maintenance activities in a scientifically acceptable process.

C. PARTICIPANTS. The City’s River Mangrove Propagation Project main participants are the formal and informal residents along the river banks, with obligations and responsibility, to be specified by the ESMO in relation to the conduct of protection and maintenance activities to the planted mangrove plants adjacent to their residence.

D. RIVER AERATION FACILITY. The City Government of Olongapo, through the ESMO in coordination with the DOST, DENR and other related government agencies shall cause the acquisition and installation of a River Aeration Facility, as a complementary recourse in rehabilitating the City’s polluted river waters.

E. PARTNERSHIP. The City Government of Olongapo, through the ESMO shall forge a strong partnership with DENR, DOST, DAR and/or other related private agencies in the provision of technology, logistical, technical, managerial and community organizing needs of the program.

SECTION 11. PHASES OF EXECUTION. The adaptation and mitigation programs and policies, considering its considerable magnitude and the need for specialization, shall be diligently implemented in a gradual, consistent and systemic manner.

SECTION 12. PREPARATORY PHASE. There shall be a preparatory phase for the purpose of setting up the organizational, capability and information requirement of the program implementation.

A. TIMEFRAME. Upon the effectivity of this Ordinance, the preparatory phase shall commence and shall be implemented within a year.

B. SPECIALIZATION. For the required skills and knowledge development of the program, the City Government of Olongapo, through the ESMO, shall conduct and access technical assistance, training provisions, coaching and tutorial sessions from various related national government agencies, international agencies, non-government and business organizations.

C. FORMULATION OF THE OLONGAPO CITY WATERSHED PHYSICAL AND SOCIO ECONOMIC STUDY. In coordination with the DENR and other related national and international agencies, the City Government of Olongapo, through the ESMO, shall caused the conduct of the appraisal of the following:

1. Watershed topography;
2. The severity and extent of soil erosion, its forest and inventory of vegetation;
3. The severity and extent of forest occupation and its socio-economic condition;
4. Hydrology, river siltation, river water quality, water bodies pollution;
5. The potential of a reforestation and river rehabilitation program;
6. Crucial issue and critical areas to be rehabilitated;
7. And other important aspects of the watershed.

(Note: Based on the latest DENR-CENRO data in the year 2009, the City’s watershed area was determined to be around 6,335 hectares* from a legislated 8,033.10 hectares** proclaimed watershed area, PD # 238.)

D. FORMULATION OF THE CITY’S WATERSHED MANAGEMENT AND DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM. Deriving from the knowledge and information on the watershed area, the City Government of Olongapo, through the ESMO, shall formulate and publish a Watershed Management and Development Program.

SECTION 13. FIRST PHASE OF ADAPTATION AND MITIGATION MEASURES. Upon completion of the preparatory phase, the 1st phase shall be implemented for the purpose of addressing the least and doable adaptation measures.

* Land Use Section, CPDO, 2008
** Olongapo Watershed Development Project,
Draft of Final Report, November 1985

A. BASIC WEATHER INSTRUMENTS. The ESMO shall be equipped with basic and simple instruments necessary for temperature, air quality and rainfall reading and analysis.

B. REGULAR WEATHER AND CLIMATE ADVISORY. The ESMO shall conduct a regular monitoring on the City’s basic weather situation and climate and in return shall effectively provide the public (utilizing popular medium brgy. mobile PA, radio, local CATV, SMS, etc ) the regular weather advisory and warnings on cases of extreme climate, temperature and rainfall volume conditions.

SECTION 14. AIR POLLUTION MITIGATION MEASURE. In addition to all related City policies, the City Government of Olongapo, through ESMO shall forge a mutual working arrangement with the local Land Transportation Office (LTO), Gas Emission Testing Centers and other related government offices to effectively enforce a gradual, acceptable (to all stakeholders) and consistent program of eradicating smoke belching vehicles in the City following the generally acceptable national standards:

A. AIR POLLUTION MONITORING AND ANALYSIS CAPABILITY. The City Government of Olongapo, through the ESMO, shall have the basic capability, in terms of knowledge and skills and fundamental instrument reading on air quality or air pollution monitoring and analysis;

B. AIR POLLUTION MONITORING INSTRUMENTS. The ESMO shall be equipped with fundamental instrument/s necessary for air quality or air pollution reading and analysis;

C. REGULAR AIR POLLUTION ADVISORY. The ESMO shall conduct a regular monitoring on the City’s air quality or air pollution and in return shall effectively provide the public (utilizing popular medium brgy. mobile PA, radio, local CATV, SMS, etc ) the regular air quality or pollution advisory and warnings on cases of extreme conditions.

SECTION 15. INFORMATION AND EDUCATION ON CLIMATE CHANGE. In the most popular format and medium, the City Government of Olongapo, through the ESMO shall conduct a continuing Information and Education Program on Climate Change issues.

A. INCLUSION OF CLIMATE CHANGE TOPICS IN SCHOOL CURRICULUM, FORMALLY OR INFORMALLY. The City Government of Olongapo, through the ESMO shall forge an effective working arrangement with the Department of Education (DepEd), Division of City Schools and with the private schools with regards to the inclusion or integration/mainstreaming of Climate Change issues on their course curriculum in elementary and secondary levels.

B. PUBLICATION AND MULTIMEDIA PRODUCTION. The City Government of Olongapo, through the ESMO shall forge an effective working arrangement with the Public Affairs Office (PAO), Department of Education (DepEd), Division of City Schools and other potential government and private institutions, with regards to the production of reading materials and multimedia materials on Climate Change issues.

SECTION 16. HEALTH RELATED ADAPTATION MEASURE. The City Government of Olongapo, through the City Health Office (CHO) shall religiously provide the public (utilizing popular medium brgy. mobile PA, radio, local CATV, SMS, etc.) with the health advisory on therapeutic and preventive measures on illnesses aggravated or caused by extreme weather and climate condition.

SECTION 17. URBAN GREENING PROGRAM. Upon the effectivity of this Ordinance, the ESMO and the Office of the City Parks and Plazas in the enhancement of the implementation and maintenance of the urban greening program of sidewalks, center islands, vacant lots, parks and other vacant nook spaces of the commercial areas.

A. ADOPT AND MAINTAIN A SIDEWALK TREE OR SPOT GARDEN. The ESMO shall mobilize business proprietors, residents, NGOs, civic organizations to participate in the adoption and maintenance of the sidewalk trees or gardens adjacent or afar from their business establishments or residential area.

B. ESTABLISHMENT OF BOTANICAL GARDENS. The City Government of Olongapo through ESMO, shall enter into an agreement with the DepEd Division of City Schools in the development and maintenance of the schools’ garden into a Community Botanical Garden.

C. PROMOTIONS. The current City Nursery of Ornamental Plants located in Old Hospital Road, East Tapinac shall be converted into a Botanical Garden for purposes of promoting and eventual development of urban gardening and greening among Olongapeños, retaining its function of being a nursery and stockade of ornamental plants and trees.

D. ANNUAL CELEBRATION OF ARBOR DAY. As part of the information and education campaign of the City Government of Olongapo, through the initiative of the ESMO an annual celebration of the Arbor Day shall be conducted every 25th of the month of June, in accordance with the national government’s celebration. The objective of the celebration is to annually reiterate the commitment of the City government on the protection and development of the City’s watershed.

SECTION 18. OLONGAPO CITY POWER-ELECTRICITY SAVING PROGRAM. Upon the effectivity of this Ordinance, the City Government of Olongapo, through the supervision of the ESMO, shall implement a city – wide energy conservation program.

A. INVENTORY AND APPRAISAL OF ELECTRICITY USAGE. The ESMO shall conduct an inventory and appraisal of lighting and electricity usage in the following aspects:

1. Temporal. Current inventory and appraisal in terms of length of time of usage and commencement and termination of usage of lighting and electricity of each offices in government buildings and facilities;
2. Spatial. Current inventory and appraisal of nooks and places where lighting and electricity is utilized in government building and facilities;
3. Ownership. The study shall likewise, consider the recommended or suggested conservation and saving procedures a particular office may adopt.

B. FORMULATION OF SAVING PROGRAM. Based on the essential temporal and spatial need of lighting and electricity usage of the public facilities and buildings, the ESMO shall formulate and institute a Power-Electricity Saving Program.

1. SPECIFIED TIME ON THE USE OF AIRCONDITIONING UNITS. The program shall specify the time of commencement and termination in the use and operations of all offices’ air conditioning units, in accordance with the results of the appraisal.
2. SPECIFIED TEMPERATURE OR WEATHER ON THE USE OF AIRCONDITIONING UNITS. In addition to the specified time of usage, air conditioning units shall be used in moderation during typhoons or cold weather, i.e. at a room temperature not lower than 25 degrees Centigrade.
3. SPARINGLY USE OF LIGHTINGS AND ELECTRICITY. In consideration with public safety and security, the program shall specify nooks and places in all government buildings and facilities to be lighted and its corresponding length of time. Use of incandescent bulb shall be at the minimum.

SECTION 19. SECOND PHASE OF ADAPTATION AND MITIGATION MEASURES. There shall be a second phase of the adaptation and mitigation measures for the purpose of prioritizing the most severe and sensitive areas of the watershed.

SECTION 20. UPLAND COMMUNITY ORGANIZING PROGRAM. Abiding by the principle of “People first…”, the City Government of Olongapo, upon the completion of the Watershed Physical and Socio-Economic Study, through the ESMO shall undertake an Upland Community Organizing Program covering the communities within the program area specified in the Olongapo City Watershed Physical and Socio-Economic Study, involving the Urban Basic Service Program (UBSP) and the City Government’s traditional community partners, People’s Organization and Non-Government Organization.

SECTION 21. PILOT AREA OF THE REFORESTATION, PROTECTION AND CONSERVATION PROGRAM. The City Government of Olongapo through the ESMO shall determine, upon the completion of the study, the Olongapo City Watershed Physical and Socio- Economic Study, and conduct a pilot area project on reforestation.

SECTION 22. PRIORITIZATION. The identified pilot area of the Reforestation Program shall have the following characteristics:

a. The most sensitive land area having a symbiotic relationship and impact to the watershed recovery and development if rehabilitated;
b. Identified as one of the critical areas in terms of severity in vegetation, encroachment and land utilization and erosion;
c. The pilot area shall not be more than 100 hectares.

SECTION 23. PILOT AREA OF THE RIVER PROTECTION AND REHABILITATION PROGRAM. The City Government of Olongapo through the ESMO shall determine, upon the completion of the study, the Olongapo City Watershed Physical and Socio-Economic Study and conduct a pilot area project on river protection and rehabilitation program.

SECTION 24. PRIORITIZATION. The identified pilot area of the River Protection and Rehabilitation Program shall have the following characteristics:

a. The most sensitive land area having a symbiotic relationship and impact to the watershed recovery and development if rehabilitated;
b. Identified as one of the critical areas in terms of severity in pollution, vegetation, river bank utilization and erosion;
c. The pilot area shall not be more than 100 hectares.

SECTION 25 . PILOT PROJECT ON RAINWATER HARVESTING SYSTEM OR “BONG SPOUT”. All City Government buildings and facilities shall be gradually installed with a Rainwater Harvesting System for use in urinals and toilets of public comfort rooms and for other cleaning and gardening purposes, starting from the City Hall Complex as the City’s model and thereafter the Barangay Hall buildings as the model in the community level.

SECTION 26. PILOT PROJECT ON A MODEL RECYCLING PROJECT, THE PLASTIC BRICK FABRICATION TECHNOLOGY. The City Government of Olongapo, through the ESMO, in partnership with the DOST and other related agencies, shall carry out the implementation of the Plastic Brick Fabrication System and Technology as its major model of practical recycling project. It shall thereafter be promoted and implemented in the barangay level.

SECTION 27. STRATEGIC DIRECTION AND EXPANSION OF THE REFORESTATION, PROTECTION AND CONSERVATION PROGRAM. After 2 years of implementation of the pilot project of the Reforestation, Protection and Conservation Program, the City Government of Olongapo through the ESMO shall implement the program expanding its area of scope, its program participants, and its program components.

A. AREA OF SCOPE. The Olongapo City’s Reforestation, Protection and Conservation Program shall gradually expand its area of scope to other land area / parts of the watershed, identified in the Olongapo City Watershed Physical and Socio-Economic Study.

B. PARTICIPANTS. The City Government of Olongapo, through the ESMO shall lead and mobilize all Barangay Local Governments together with the barangay-based NGOs, and institutions in the implementation of the Reforestation, Protection and Conservation Program in their locality. The Barangays or communities not included or not within the identified watershed area shall likewise, participate and share their resources in the program implementation.

C. DEVELOPMENT AND PROMOTION OF REFORESTATION STUDY TOUR. The City Government of Olongapo, through the City Tourism Office and ESMO shall develop and promote study tours in the pilot areas of the City’s Reforestation, Protection and Conservation Program among the pupils and students in the private and public schools of Olongapo City and other cities and municipalities. Thereafter, whenever able, the program shall be enhanced into an Ecological Tourism Program.

SECTION 28. STRATEGIC DIRECTION AND EXPANSION OF THE RIVER PROTECTION AND REHABILITATION PROGRAM. After 2 years of implementation of the pilot project, the City Government of Olongapo, through the ESMO shall implement a continuing River Protection and Rehabilitation Program in the 5 major river tributaries of Olongapo City namely; Sta River, Mabayuan River, Nagunao River, Tawirang Balete River and Jadjad River.

A. AREA OF SCOPE. The Olongapo City’s River Protection and Rehabilitation Program shall gradually expand its area of scope to other land area / parts of the watershed, identified in the Olongapo City Watershed Physical and Socio-Economic Study.

B. PARTICIPANTS. The City Government of Olongapo, through the ESMO shall lead and mobilize all Barangay Local Governments together with the barangay-based NGOs, and institutions in the implementation of the River Protection and Rehabilitation Program in their locality. The Barangays or communities not included or not within the identified watershed area shall likewise, participate and share their resources in the program implementation.

C. MARINE SANCTUARY. The City Government of Olongapo, through the ESMO shall conduct a pilot test and development plan of a sanctuary and refuge area for river marine life within the 5 major river tributaries of Olongapo City.

SECTION 29. LAND USE AND DISASTER ADAPTATION AND MITIGATION, STRUCTURAL AND NON-STRUTCURAL MEASURE. In coordination with the related agencies, the City Government of Olongapo, through the City Planning and Development Office (CPDO) shall formulate and implement a continuing land use related disaster adaptation and mitigation measures.

A. HAZARDOUS SLOPING AREAS. Upon the effectivity of this Ordinance, the City Government of Olongapo, spearheaded by the City Planning and Development Office (CPDO) shall resolutely formulate a 5-year long term house relocation program that is acceptable to all stakeholders. The program shall have an objective of gradually relocating selected houses constructed in the most hazardous sloping areas of the City. The projects and activities of the program shall be integrated in the annual investment plan of the City for the next 5 years.

B. SIGNS AND PUBLIC NOTICES. Furthermore, the City Government of Olongapo through the City Planning and Development Office (CPDO) together with the ESMO and the Disaster Management Office (DMO) shall construct permanent concrete precautionary signs and/or notifications, articulating the prohibition of construction of structures, technically specifying the location and size of the hazard area using the national language, Filipino.

C. STRUCTURAL MEASURE IN HAZARDOUS RIVER BANKS AND SLOPING AREAS. Upon the effectivity of this Ordinance, the City Government of Olongapo, spearheaded by the City Planning and Development Office (CPDO) shall formulate a 5-year term river bank and slope reinforcement and slope erosion development program of varying types.(gabion gravity wall, reinforce soil walls, rock fall protection, concrete blasting, etc.) The projects and activities of the program shall be integrated in the annual investment plan of the City for the next 5 years.

SECTION 30. FLOODING ADAPTATION AND MITIGATION MEASURES. The City Government of Olongapo, spearheaded by the City Engineer’s Office (CEO) and the City Planning and Development Office (CPDO) shall resolutely perform the following adaptation and mitigation measures:

A. CONDUCT OF A FLOOD CONTROL MASTERPLAN. Upon the effectivity of this Ordinance, the City Government of Olongapo, spearheaded by the Disaster Management Office (DMO), City Engineer’s Office (CEO) and the City Planning and Development Office (CPDO) shall formulate a 5-year-term flood control program. The projects and activities of the program shall be integrated in the annual investment plan of the City for the next 5 years.

B. SIGNS AND PUBLIC NOTICES. Furthermore, the City Government of Olongapo through the City Planning and Development Office (CPDO) together with the ESMO and the Disaster Management Office (DMO) shall construct permanent concrete precautionary signs and/or notifications on the City’s natural flood prone areas, articulating the character of the flood prone terrain, the standard construction of infrastructures, technically specifying the location and size of the hazard area using the national language, Filipino.

C. INFRASTRUCTURE STANDARDS ON THE CITY’S NATURAL FLOOD PRONE AREAS. Upon the effectivity of this Ordinance, the City Government of Olongapo, spearheaded by the Disaster Management Office (DMO), City Engineer’s Office (CEO) and the City Planning and Development Office (CPDO) shall formulate an engineering construction policies and standards for buildings, roads and other infrastructure on the most flood prone areas of the City. Thereafter, it shall propose the said policies and standards to the appropriate Legislative Committee of the Olongapo City Sangguniang Panglungsod for enactment;

D. PERMANENT MULTI PURPOSE SHELTER AND EVACUATION CENTER. In coordination with the appropriate local and national government agencies, the City Government of Olongapo, through the City Planning and Development Office (CPDO), Disaster Management Office and the ESMO shall locate and establish a permanent multi- purpose disaster evacuation center.

SECTION 31. CONSTRUCTION STANDARDS ON SEWAGE AND SEPTIC TANKS FOR RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL USE. Upon the effectivity of this Ordinance, the City Government of Olongapo, spearheaded by the ESMO, City Engineer’s Office (CEO) and the City Planning and Development Office (CPDO) shall formulate an engineering construction policies and standards in the construction of sewage system and septic tanks of residential; houses and buildings and commercial establishments. Thereafter, it shall propose the said policies and standards to the appropriate Legislative Committee of the Olongapo City Sangguniang Panglungsod for enactment.

SECTION 32. RENEWABLE ENERGY PROGRAM. Upon the effectivity of this Ordinance, the City Government of Olongapo, spearheaded by the ESMO, in coordination with the DOST, DENR and related government agencies shall study the viability and feasibility of renewable energy sources and other clean development mechanisms as recommended by the UNFCCC and subsequently formulate a strategic development program, such as:

1. Solar power energy;
2. Mini hydro powerplant;
3. Geothermal;
4. Wind Farm;
5. Methane Harvesting Facility;
6. and others.

Thereafter, shall be integrated in the City’s Development Plan (CDP).

SECTION 33. IMPLEMENTING RULES AND REGULATIONS. Upon effectivity of this Ordinance, the ESMO, in consultation with the appropriate City Council Legislative Committee, relevant government agencies, local government units, private sector, NGOs and/or civil society, promulgate the implementing rules and regulations of this Ordinance. Provided, That failure to issue rules and regulations shall not in any manner affect the executory nature of the provisions of this Ordinance.

SECTION 34. FUNDING ALLOCATION FOR CLIMATE CHANGE. All relevant city government departments and offices shall allocate from their annual appropriations adequate funds for the formulation, development and implementation, including training, capacity building and direct intervention, of their respective climate change programs and plans. In subsequent budget proposals, the concerned offices and units shall appropriate funds for program/project development and implementation including continuing training and education in climate change.

SECTION 35. APPROPRIATIONS. - The fund for the implementation of this Ordinance shall be sourced from the Mayor’s Office Fund. Thereafter, such sums as shall be necessary for the operation and maintenance of the ESMO and other related programs shall be included in the Annual Investment Plan (AIP).

SECTION 36. REPEALING CLAUSE. All laws, ordinances, rules and regulations, and
other issuances or parts thereof which are inconsistent with this Ordinance, are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.

SECTION 37. EFFECTIVITY CLAUSE. This Act shall take effect upon approval and after publication in the newspaper of general circulation.

APPROVED UNANIMOUSLY, June 29, 2010.

CYNTHIA G. CAJUDO
City Vice-Mayor & Presiding Officer

GINA GULANES-PEREZ *JOHN CARLOS G. DELOS REYES
City Councilor City Councilor
RODEL S. CEREZO SARAH LUGERNA LIPUMANO-GARCIA
City Councilor City Councilor
(Absent)

*left after reconvening the session

EDWIN J. PIANO ANGELITO W. BALOY
City Councilor City Councilor
(Absent)
AQUILINO Y. CORTEZ, JR. ANSELMO A. AQUINO
City Councilor City Councilor

ELENA C. DABU JONATHAN G. MANALO
City Councilor City Councilor
(Absent)

AUDIE S. SUNDIAM CHEENEE F. HOYA
President, Liga ng mga Barangay SK Federation President

ATTEST:

ELFLIDA S. SALMON
Council Secretary

APPROVED BY HIS HONOR, THE CITY MAYOR ON ____________________.


JAMES GORDON, JR.
City Mayor
ATTEST:

DELFIN A. JUICO, JR.
Secretary to the City Mayor

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