Beauty pageant’s proceeds go to Imus River cleanup

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has turned over more than P430,000 raised during the Ms. Philippines-Calabarzon beauty pageant for the cleanup of the Imus River in Cavite.

Secretary Armando De Castro, DENR officer-in-charge, handed over the other day a check for P434,636.69 to Arnel Cantimbuhan, president of the Rotary Club of Imus, for the river’s cleanup.

De Castro said Imus River is categorized as Class C, which means that it can still accommodate fishing and be used for irrigation and industrial purposes, but no longer for swimming or bathing.

However, he said the river could deteriorate if its pollution is not addressed immediately.

"Domestic and industrial wastes that end up in the river are the main causes of water pollution. These wastes come from households and industries located along and near the river," he said.

De Castro blamed the situation on "indifference due to lack of appreciation of the environment and the absence of government support in terms of facilities and infrastructure."

Initially, De Castro said the proceeds of the beauty pageant would go to an educational campaign and the installation of waste recovery facilities.