The department of environment and natural resources (denr) has recognized the cabulalaan river in this town for its improved water quality:he Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has recognized the Cabulalaan River in this town for its improved water quality, effective solid waste management, and sustainable environmental programs, citing the strong collaboration between the local government and community stakeholders. The river has been selected as the region's entry to the DENR's Recognizing Individuals/Institutions towards Vibrant and Enhanced Rivers (RIVERs) for Life Awards, a program that honors communities and environment officials for effectively implementing environmental laws and river conservation initiatives.
According to Philippines News Agency, 'There is a Regional Composite Team that evaluated our river and I am happy to learn about the result. The Cabulalaan River of Bacarra is our regional entry for the Rivers for Life Awards,' Provincial Environment and Natural Resources officer Victor Dabalos said in an interview on Monday. The Cabulalaan River system covers 4,429.66 hectares and stretches 11.35 kilometers through the villages of Bani, Cabulalaan, Cabusligan, Calioet-Libong, Corocor, Duripes, Macupit, Natba, Pasngal, Pipias, Teppang, and Tubburan.
Residents attributed the river's continued health to years of conservation efforts and community participation. Dina Afaga, the municipal tourism officer who resides near the river, said the waterway has long been a source of livelihood and recreation for the community. Afaga recalled that when she was a child, she enjoyed the river especially when it turned into an 'infinity pool' during the rainy season. 'The river brought us together and its waters became our bread of life,' she said.
Local officials said the river continues to serve as a lifeline for surrounding communities, supported by the cooperation of public and private stakeholders in protecting and conserving the environment. Among the best practices cited by evaluators were regular river cleanups, riverbank protection projects, improved sewerage systems, tree-planting activities, and strengthened waste management policies. These measures contributed to a significant reduction in pollution and improved the river's overall health.
Launched in 2018, the RIVERs for Life Awards recognize efforts to protect and restore the country's rivers from pollution and environmental degradation. The program also seeks to raise public awareness and encourage collective action in conserving healthy river systems.
