Mrs. Amelita Ramos on Pasig

What was once a picture of clear and pristine waters that flowed along verdant riverbanks, is now an image that takes a semblance of gloom, sickness, and desperation. Indeed, the Pasig River is no longer what it was known to be.

Hope came in 1995, when the Piso Para sa Pasig (PPP) campaign was ushered in to generate a new reawakening in the race to save the national heritage, and its surroundings now threatened by its declining conditions.

Four years hence, the campaign has earned supporters far and wider, gaining wider acceptance manifested by a higher public awareness and active public participation, all of which served to strengthen the once frail hopes of seeing the resurrection of the Pasig River - a Pasig River, ALIVE! Now, as the PPP turns another leaf in its effort to achieve the dream of a god-like feat in resurrecting the Pasig River, its resolve can only be strengthened even more, as society continues to be more vigilant and active in the preservation of the environment.

While the PPP enjoyed the support of public and private sectors, its priorities and objectives were also recognized and likewise supported by the previous administration under President Fidel V. Ramos, who ordered the creation of the Pasig Rehabilitation Programme (PRRP), on which the great effort to save the River and its tributaries was entrusted, Not to be ignored is the fact that the PPP's advocacy campaign also enjoyed the able leadership of its chairperson, former First Lady Mrs. Amelita M. Ramos, who has since remained at the forefront of the campaign since its inception.

It is of no doubt that the campaign continues to enjoy the blessings of the present administration under his Excellency, President Joseph Ejercito Estrada, who likewise echoed the call for the Pasig's survival and protection. This he did in the mandate enjoined by Executive Orders No. 54 & 65, creating the Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission - a move that only served to reinforce the same resolve exhibited by his predecessor.

"Muling aawit ang Pasig," the battlecry declares. And sing once again it will, as long as the journey to the promised hope of a river teeming with life once again is not impeded with indifference and non-commitment.

For now, the Pasig remains - hoping and waiting for the realization of that dream that is now moving closer within its reach.

Want to know how she was for the Past month? Well, heres a glimpse of her schedule. Obviously the Chairperson herself is very busy dedicating herself in the protection, preservation and enhancement of the environment and the quality of life of the Filipino People.

• 30 May 1999 - Clean & Green Foundation/Piso Para sa Pasig "Muling Aawit ang Pasig" Concert at the Metropolitan Museum

• 13 May 1999 - Guest of Honor -- Gala Opening of the Exhibition AT HOME AND ABROAD at the Metropolitan Museum of Manila

• 11-28 Apr 1999 - Trip to Geneva, Germany, Hungary, Poland with Former President Fidel V. Ramos

• 29 May- 1 June 1999 - Bangkok, Thailand