The DENR project goes full blast with the implementation of the "Ecowatch," as the expanded program was launched in 2004, which was initially focused on water quality.

The DENR chief said that through the re-launch of the Ecowatch project, industries will be encouraged to improve their environmental performance through public disclosure.

DENR-Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) Director Julian Amador said the industries will be evaluated using color codes gold, silver, green, blue, red, and black.

Amador said industries whose environmental efforts go beyond legal requirements will be rated gold or silver, while those whose undertakings are sufficient enough to comply with DENR standards will be rated green or blue.

"Red will be given to industries whose efforts are insufficient to abide by environmental regulations and black for companies that make no effort to improve their compliance," Amador said.

Under the program, industries covered are sugar, beverage, pulp and paper, and cement plants.

Also included are meat and fish processing, soy sauce and condiments manufacturing, food processing and dressing plants, mall/commercial establishments, beer and soft drinks manufacturing.

Amador clarified that the incentives will continue to be in force provided that the firm maintains its corresponding rating.

"If the firm fails to do so, such incentives will be automatically withdrawn," he said.