An alliance for the environment

MANILA, Philippines - Fourteen years ago, Bantay Kalikasan saw a neglected La Mesa Watershed which had fallen prey to the illegal settlers who cut trees for commercial trade. Being the sole watershed in Metro Manila which provides potable water to its 12 million residents, Bantay Kalikasan (BK) launched the Save the La Mesa Watershed campaign.

“To let go of the remaining watershed in Metro Manila would be totally unacceptable. It is only by working together to save the ‘lungs of the metropolis’ can we guarantee a good future,” said AFI managing director Gina Lopez.

With full enthusiasm, the partnership between the MWSS and the Quezon City government and BK was forged to reforest the watershed. From a once decrepit-looking tract of land, it is today an award winning haven where a variety of birds and plant species thrive. It is now among the most visited public parks in the city by families and students, and is a favorite location for pre-nuptial pictorials.  

A total of 620,800 trees were planted in La Mesa Watershed, covering 98.3 percent of its 2,700 hectares, helping clean the polluted air of the metropolis.

The La Mesa Ecopark was opened to the public to provide funds to sustain the watershed. It is seen as a long-term endeavor that can help guarantee the financial sustainability of the reforestation efforts.

BK established a healthy business venture with the MWSS and the QC government to save the environment through ecotourism that is sustainable, leaves no irreversible damage and has long-term benefits for future generations. Through private organizations and individuals who share this conviction, BK raised P101 million for the rehabilitation of La Mesa Watershed and P247 million to develop the Ecopark. A management fee equivalent to 15 percent of the gross revenue generated from park operations is ploughed back in the form of park employees’ salaries, upkeep and maintenance and improvement of amenities.  

The balance is used to restore the watershed. Any unutilized funds will be remitted to MWSS and the QC government. 

BK presents a financial statement to the board annually.  An Environmental Trust Fund from the operation of the La Mesa Resort Zone has been established and is well-documented.

BK has maintained a good working relationship with the MWSS and the QC government over the last 14 years. The gains of having been able to save a forest, bring about security in the water supply of the city, provide clean air and a place for recreation for millions of city residents is a success that is shared by all.

BK commits to remain a catalyst to provide a sustainable and natural environment for future generations. For details, visit www.bantaykalikasan.com.