The call to protect the Ambalanga River echoed strongly as residents and local officials came together for a clean-up drive spearheaded by the Itogon Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO) on April 6 and 7, 2026.
The activity, held in Barangay Poblacion on April 6 and Barangay Gumatdang on April 7, forms part of MENRO’s regular environmental program for the first semester—an ongoing effort to restore and preserve one of Itogon’s vital waterways.
Armed with sacks, gloves, and a shared sense of responsibility, MENRO personnel worked side by side with community members and barangay officials to clear stretches of the riverbank of accumulated waste. The initiative not only focused on physical clean-up but also aimed to strengthen awareness among residents on the importance of proper waste disposal and river stewardship.
The activity also highlighted an ongoing concern. Large volumes of household garbage including plastic packaging, containers, and other domestic waste were found scattered along the riverbanks, indicating improper disposal practices.
It is disheartening to see that despite continuous reminders and efforts, some households still resort to dumping their waste into the river, contributing to its degradation.
Aside from improper disposal of household waste, mining activities in the area have contributed to its degradation, particularly through the discharge of mine tailings and other waste into nearby waterways.
In 2017, the Ambalanga River drew public attention after portions of its waters turned an unusual blue, a phenomenon linked to chemical reactions from mining waste. A similar incident was reported again in 2021, further highlighting the environmental risks associated with improper waste management from small-scale mining operations.
The Ambalanga River, a vital resource for nearby communities, continues to face environmental pressures that threaten both its ecological condition and its role in supporting local livelihoods.
Through initiatives like this clean-up drive, MENRO continues to push for a culture of environmental responsibility—encouraging residents to take an active role in safeguarding their natural resources. The office reiterated its call for the public to practice proper waste management.
Saving the Ambalanga River is not a one-time effort, but a shared responsibility that flows through every household and every community in Itogon.
[by PIO interns: Charmaine Capsula, Nicolle Joy Delmas, Rhyza Joie Tomas; BSU BA COMM]
