“RIVERS have once given us more than livelihood. They are part of San Fernando’s history, and they are worth saving.”

Thus said Mayor Edwin Santiago during Monday’s flag raising ceremony as he engaged his fellow Fernandinos to participate in the revival of river systems surrounding this city.

The City of San Fernando, located along the center of Pampanga, is surrounded by the San Fernando River and its tributaries Alasas and San Agustin creeks, are fed by the Sapang Balen River from the northern part of the province, draining through Del Carmen Creek.

As stewards of the nature, Santiago urged Fernandinos to join hands in reviving and preserving the river and its tributaries for the future generation to enjoy and experience its natural beauty.

“Let us keep in mind that the river is never a place to dump garbage and waste, rather a sanctuary of fish and other water creatures which once gave livelihood to our early families,” he said.

Santiago said that he is spearheading the revival of the “Sagip Ilog” program which would include the removal of obstructions and regular clea-up drives along the river, as well as promoting the protection of river as a way of life.

He added that the city government, in partnership with the private sector, has already started the beautification of riverwalks, which includes putting up of mini parks, to further showcase to the public the beauty of the river.

Meanwhile, Santiago said that the city government is also up to strictly enforce the law for those who will be caught dumping, disposing and discharging any type of waste in the rivers and creeks.

He added that a massive education drive is being conducted for residents along the riverbank to inform them of the laws and measures in maintaining the rivers as part of the call for their preservation.

“All we need is discipline, and I know Fernandinos are well-disciplined individuals so let us join hands in reviving our river, and make its maintenance of cleanliness our way of life,” Santiago encouraged the public.