Governor Arthur Defensor, Jr. met with Mayor Sofronio Fusin of the Municipality of Oton, along with barangay officials from seven barangays through which the Batiano River passes, to present his ambitious Balik-Batiano River Development Project.
It aims to restore the river’s cultural and historical importance, strengthen biodiversity and climate resilience, involve local communities and youth in environmental stewardship, and promote sustainable livelihoods and ecotourism to boost the local economy while protecting the environment.
The Balik-Batiano River Development Project was unveiled during a massive cleanup drive in Oton on August 30, 2025 which was conducted in partnership with RMN DYRI and other stakeholders.
Initially, Gov. Defensor called on the barangay officials of Tagbac Sur, Buray, Poblacion West, Poblacion North, San Antonio, San Nicolas, and Alegre to identify the households or structures within the three meters easement on both sides of the river.
Gov. Defensor said the immediate plan is to start dredging the Batiano River with the help of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
Also present in the meeting were representatives from the Provincial Government Environment and Natural Resources Office (PGENRO), Provincial Engineers Officer and Provincial Tourism Office.
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