Robinsons Iloilo Joins EMB's City-wide Adopt-an-Estero Program

March 23, 2024 – Esteros or estuaries are essentially small water corridors that lead to larger basins of water, such as lakes. When strong rains pour, these water inlets serve as drainage systems for the city, avoiding urban flooding. However, irresponsible waste management has led trash to populate in these areas, clogging waterways and putting nearby areas at risk of inundation.

To maintain the health of its common water bodies, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources - Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB) Region 6 called for the help of volunteers to assist in a simultaneous water body clean-up drive for designated estuaries across the city.

Recognizing the importance of water conservation, management and protection in the region, Robinsons Iloilo launched RKalikasan in response to the call for volunteering assistance by the DENR-EMB VI for its Adopt-an-Estero Water Body Program Clean-Up Activity on March 23.

Through RKalikasan, Robinsons Iloilo was able to mobilize employee volunteers for the clean-up drive and donate cleaning materials. The materials included tools and implements such as rubber gloves, trashliners and tongs essential in extracting waste that clog the esteros.

Led by Robinsons  Iloilo’s Mall Operations Manager Ms Julie Ann Urdas, mall employee volunteers joined in the drive which covered Iloilo River Esplanade 3 and Iloilo River Esplanade 1 Extension. The said area stretched from Benigno Aquino Bridge and Skatepark to the mid-part of Esplanade 3.

At the end of the drive, employee volunteers accomplished a report that included geo-tagged photos and information like quantities of trash-filled sacks collected and even the weight of solid wastes gathered, for reverting to the bureau.

Robinsons Iloilo’s participation in the clean-up drive is a demonstration of solidarity with the community in pursuing long-lasting environmental sustainability by being responsible stewards of our water bodies.

R Kalikasan is RLove's environmental sustainability CSR program. R Kalikasan takes up greening initiatives and volunteerism projects that aims to mitigate climate change and reduce wastes sent to landfills; supporting the UNSDGs: #13 - Climate Action & #14 – Life below water.

RLove believes that as one community, we must stand united in our efforts in contributing to a brighter & greener future for our shared home.