Need for Clearing MWSS Waterways and Relocation of Informal Settlers
- Informal settlers' presence in MWSS areas contributes to the degradation of water quality and infrastructure efficiency.
- Clearing waterways/right-of-ways and relocating informal settler families (ISFs) to proper relocation sites is deemed necessary.
- Funding for relocation can come from existing ODA housing projects and MWSS project funds.
Role of MWSS in Water Supply Projects and Housing Development
- MWSS is the primary planning and regulatory agency for water supply projects.
- It is responsible for overseeing the implementation, development, and upgrade of water systems.
- MWSS to identify alternate funding sources and manage housing development costs.
- MWSS may transfer properties as relocation sites in coordination with LGUs and the National Housing Authority (NHA).
- Collaboration with HUDCC and DENR is mandated for utilizing proclaimed areas as relocation sites.
Responsibilities of DILG, MMDA, and LGUs in Clearing and Relocation
- The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), with LGUs and NHA, are directed to clear waterways and relocate informal settlers.
- These agencies must call a "Waterways Protection and Preservation Summit" to design a collaborative action plan.
- The plan must address clearing, protection of waterways, and relocation schedules.
- The action plan is subject to approval by the Office of the President.
Priority and Support by HUDCC
- HUDCC is instructed to prioritize LGUs with squatting problems along MWSS waterways/right-of-ways.
- Priority is given to those eligible for ODA-funded housing projects and other available funds.
Mandatory Cooperation from Government Agencies
- All government agencies, instrumentalities, subdivisions, and government-owned or controlled corporations must provide full cooperation and support to MWSS when called upon for the water and relocation projects.
Creation and Composition of Inter-Agency Coordinating Committee (IACC)
- An IACC is created, chaired by the MWSS and co-chaired by the DILG.
- Members include HUDCC, MMDA, NCIP, DAR, DENR, DBM, NAPC, PMS, LGUs, and the two MWSS concessionaires.
- The committee will oversee and monitor the implementation of the waterways protection action plan.
Budgeting and Program Submission
- MWSS, DILG, MMDA, NHA, and LGUs must submit work programs and corresponding budgets to the Department of Budget and Management (DBM).
- These funds will cover the activities under the Memorandum Order.
Formulation of Rules and Reporting Requirements
- MWSS, in consultation with DILG, MMDA, and LGUs, will formulate the necessary rules and policy guidelines.
- MWSS shall submit periodic reports on implementation status to the Office of the President through the Executive Secretary.
Amendments to Inconsistent Orders or Rules
- Any existing orders, rules, or regulations inconsistent with this Memorandum Order are amended or modified accordingly.
Immediate Effectivity
- This Memorandum Order takes effect immediately upon issuance.