First Philippine Industrial Park (FPIP) is stepping up its environmental advocacy as it expands its Adopt-an-Estero Program, adding another 2.7 kilometers of the San Juan River to its rehabilitation efforts. With this move, FPIP now covers a total of 6 kilometers—a significant step that reflects its growing commitment to protecting Batangas’ waterways.
The expansion was formalized during a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing held on November 14, 2025, at the Consuelo Park Pavilion inside FPIP. The event brought together officials from the city governments of Sto. Tomas and Tanauan, as well as representatives from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA), PEZA, and various community stakeholders.
Engr. Jeremaine Esguerra, General Manager of FPIP Utilities Inc. (FUI) and First Industrial Township Water Inc. (FITWI), opened the ceremony with a challenge to all attendees: help “revive the river.” She emphasized that even the smallest effort can “create ripples that lead to lasting change,” reinforcing FPIP’s long-term goal of restoring local ecosystems.
This newly added stretch builds on FPIP’s original 3.7-kilometer adoption made in 2023. Since then, the company has regularly organized cleanup drives, tree planting, waste-trap installations, and community awareness campaigns to encourage proper waste management among residents and partner organizations. These activities form part of FPIP’s broader mission to fight pollution and support the revival of the San Juan River system.
DENR-EMB Environmental Monitoring and Enforcement Division Chief Corazon Gasapos stressed that true environmental protection requires consistent follow-through. “It cannot end with signing agreements. We start with esteros and rivers, and eventually protect larger bodies of water,” she said.
LLDA Environmental Regulations Department Manager Engr. Emiterio Hernandez, ENP, added that river rehabilitation is not just about the environment—it also boosts flood mitigation and strengthens community resilience.
PEZA Zone Manager Allan Datahan also highlighted teamwork, noting that recurring floods and trash-filled waterways show why sustained collaboration is essential. “Caring for the environment becomes easier and more meaningful when we work together,” he said.
With this expanded adoption, FPIP strengthens ongoing efforts to improve water quality, restore ecosystems, and help build safer, more climate-resilient communities across Batangas.| – Sheenalei Briana G. Rayos
