Oroquieta City, located in Misamis Occidental, is home to the Layawan River, celebrated as one of the cleanest rivers in the Philippines. Residents regularly engage with the river, using its waters for bathing and washing.
On August 9, 2026, a photograph captured a morning scene of local residents enjoying the river's clear waters, reflecting the community's connection to this vital resource.
Recognition and Historical Context
The Layawan River received the Gawad Pangulo sa Kapaligiran, or Presidential Award for the Environment, in 2002 for being the Cleanest Inland Body of Water. This accolade highlights significant achievements in environmental protection.
The preservation efforts by the community have turned the Layawan River into a local treasure and an ecological success story.
Bobby Timonera, Photographer
- Community involvement in conservation
- Historical significance of environmental awards
The river serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining clean waterways, not only for recreational use but also for biodiversity. Efforts to protect the Layawan River can inspire similar initiatives across the country.