CATBALOGAN, Philippines (September 19, 2025) — The City Government of Catbalogan took a decisive step toward rehabilitating the Antiao River on Wednesday, as local leaders, environmental agencies, and community stakeholders gathered for the Technical Working Group (TWG) Convergence Meeting held at the Samar State University Research and Innovation Center.
The event marked a major milestone in the “Bring Back the WOW of Antiao” initiative, a flagship environmental project under the Derecho Uswag Development Agenda, specifically the #KalibunganKatbalogan component, which focuses on ecological preservation, climate resilience, and sustainable development.
Mayor Dexter Uy led the activity, which brought together approximately 60 TWG members representing local government units, barangay councils, national agencies, private sector partners, and civil society organizations. The primary objective was to formulate a unified action plan for the conservation, rehabilitation, and long-term management of the Antiao River.
In her opening remarks, Councilor Stephany Uy-Tan emphasized the importance of multi-sectoral collaboration, stating that restoring the river’s ecological integrity requires “shared responsibility and collective vision.” Expressions of support followed from For. Estela M. Polinar of the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO-Samar) and Dr. Rheajane Rosale of Samar State University, who both underscored the role of science-based strategies and community involvement.
City Administrator Atty. Dennis G. Cosmod presented an overview of the project’s goals and progress, outlining the need to reclaim the river’s environmental and cultural value. He highlighted critical issues such as pollution, poor waste management, and informal settlements that have contributed to the degradation of the Antiao River over the years.
To ensure a focused and inclusive planning process, the TWG was divided into three thematic clusters:
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Policy and Governance – tasked with strengthening institutional mechanisms, regulatory frameworks, and enforcement measures;
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Technical and Implementation – focused on environmental rehabilitation, engineering solutions, and sustainable waste management practices;
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Community and Livelihood – aimed at promoting environmental education, awareness campaigns, and eco-friendly income-generating activities for local residents.
The convergence meeting culminated in the creation of a unified plan of action that sets out strategic directions and responsibilities for each sector involved. The plan includes phased interventions, policy reforms, public engagement strategies, and monitoring mechanisms.
Among the participating agencies were CENRO-Catbalogan, CENRO-Sta. Rita, PEMU Samar–Environmental Management Bureau, Tubig Catbalogan Corporation, Metrowaste SWM Corporation, PICE-Samar, and the DepEd Catbalogan City Division, along with several non-government organizations and civic groups.
The city government reaffirmed its commitment to long-term environmental sustainability and community empowerment through collaborative governance.
“This is not just about cleaning up a river—it’s about restoring pride, culture, and connection to our natural heritage,” said Mayor Uy.
The unified action plan will be finalized and implemented in the coming months, with regular progress reviews and community consultations to ensure transparency and accountability.
The Antiao River, the only river in Catbalogan City, holds ecological, cultural, and historical significance for the local community. Once a vital natural asset, the river has suffered from years of environmental decline. The current rehabilitation initiative aims not only to restore its ecological integrity but also to transform its surroundings into accessible cultural and recreational spaces—redefining the river as a symbol of sustainable urban renewal. (via Ricky J. Bautista)
