Power dynamics in environmental policy: a case of the Pasig river rehabilitation commission's dissolution

The Pasig River is located at the heart of Metro Manila and has been vital for trade, transportation, and livelihood. However, it became one of the most polluting rivers in the world due to rapid industrialization. The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission (PRRC) was established in 1999 to address this issue. The creation of the PRRC emphasized the state’s mandate to protect the right of the people to have a balanced ecology. However, the PRRC was dissolved in 2019 by former President Rodrigo Duterte stating that the river is “uncleanable.” Interestingly, the Pasig River Expressway was approved shortly after, suggesting an agenda shift from environmental conservation to infrastructure development.This thesis is rooted in an inquiry on how political leaders remain in power despite crafting policies that do not benefit the majority. The research looks into the dissolution of the PRRC as a case study to explore the influence of power politics on environmental policy in the Philippines. It uses de Mesquita and Smith’s three coalition theory which suggests that policy-making is influenced by the distribution of a country’s three coalitions. An imbalance in the composition may influence a government’s ability to provide good governance. A theory-testing methodology is used wherein data is collected through document analysis and interviews with key stakeholders. The thesis reveals that the PRRC’s dissolution was influenced by the need to secure support from influential groups that benefited from infrastructure projects like PAREX. The findings highlight how the power dynamics in the Philippines enabled political leaders to prioritize agendas that benefit a small powerful coalition even if it does not benefit the majority of the population. The case study demonstrates the principle of how good governance is not essential to a democratic government as leaders are able to satisfy a minor section of the population yet still remain in power. The research then provides possible strategies to tackle these cases such as political clamor and public protests. Ultimately, the study aims to provide insights into the mechanisms of policy-making in the Philippines. It offers a framework that can be applied to other development issues as well. The research contributes to the existing literature on power politics and environmental policy, particularly in the context of developing countries.