Agusan del Norte river designated a water quality management area

An important river system in Agusan del Norte has been designated a water quality management area (WQMA), pursuant to the Philippine Clean Water Act of 2004. Taguibo River, which is a water source for Butuan City and nearby towns, also sustains the aquaculture industry in the area. Designating it a WQMA will enable local officials to take focused action regarding the river system's water quality issues, such as pollution and measures to improve its cleanliness. “Just like what we are doing in other WQMAs, we have to maintain an acceptable water quality in the Taguibo River because it is a source of water supply and livelihood of the people of Butuan City, as well as the towns of Magallanes and Remedios T. Romualdez in Agusan del Norte,” said Environment Secretary Ramon Paje. The Butuan City Council had recommended its designation as a WQMA, saying that it requires management by, and the protection of, the local government. — BM, GMA News