07/09/2026
SANTA ROSA CITY — The DENR-Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) Laguna, in coordination with the City Governments of Santa Rosa and Biñan, is taking initial steps to identify and mark portions of land along the Santa Rosa River that are intended for public use.
Through its Manila Bay Site Coordinating Management Office, PENRO Laguna recently engaged with the two local government units as part of preparations for the ground delineation of legal easement areas along the 40-kilometer stretch of the river.
On August 28, 2026, PENRO Laguna conducted a consultation meeting with Santa Rosa City Environment and Natural Resources Office, barangay officials, and Sangguniang Kabataan representatives to discuss the objectives, scope, implementation, and technical requirements of the proposed project.
Meanwhile, PENRO Laguna, led by PENR Officer Venerando U. Garcia attended a committee hearing with the Sangguniang Panlungsod of Biñan on September 1, 2026 to discuss the proposed undertaking and the preparation of a resolution authorizing the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the DENR and the LGU. The MOA will provide the framework for cooperation and coordination in the implementation of the ground delineation and establishment of legal easements along the Santa Rosa River.
Based on the initial assessment and project planning, 18 barangays have been identified for ground delineation: Aplaya, Balibago, Caingin, Don Jose, Ibaba, Kanluran, Labas, Macabling, Malusak, Market Area, Pooc, Pulong Sta. Cruz, Sto. Domingo and Tagapo in Santa Rosa City; and Biñan, Ganado, Loma and Mamplasan in Biñan City.
The project is being undertaken pursuant to DENR Administrative Order No. 2021-07, which provides for the identification and establishment of legal easements along waterways. These are portions of land adjoining rivers, lakes, esteros, creeks and other water bodies intended for public use for recreation, navigation, floatage, fishing and salvage.
Under the Order, cities and urban municipalities shall adopt a three-meter easement zone over areas classified as agricultural lands.
The project will be implemented in five phases: planning and preparation; aerial drone survey; establishment of legal easements; submission of the final accomplishment report; and presentation of the results to the concerned local government units.
The consultations and committee hearing underscore the importance of coordination between the DENR and local governments in the proper implementation of the project. The preparation and eventual signing of the MOA, upon approval of the appropriate Sangguniang Panlungsod Resolution, will further strengthen cooperation in the establishment of legal easements along the Santa Rosa River.
