Archival pushes household composting

CEBU, Philippines —   Mayor Nestor Archival is pushing for household composting as part of Cebu City Government s effort to address its growing waste problem, highlighted by a demonstration of a compost pit at the Cebu City Eco Park.

The initiative featured a step-by-step demonstration by Giovanni Stephen C. Romarte, executive director of the Cebu City Zoo Eco Park, who showed how biodegradable waste can be converted into organic fertilizer.

Romarte said the practice is not new but is being revived amid the widespread use of chemical fertilizers.

 Dugay na ni siya nga praktis pero karon ato ning gibalik kay kasagaran kemikal na fertilizer ang gigamit, nga bisan ang worms dili na mokaon,  he said.

He explained that the composting process uses organic inputs such as fermented fruit juice (FFJ) and fermented plant juice (FPJ), derived from fruits, leaves, and other biodegradable materials. Fish waste may also be utilized to produce fertilizer through fish amino acid.

Molasses, a byproduct of sugarcane, is used to aid fermentation, although alternatives such as brown sugar or grated coconut may be used if unavailable.

While fermentation typically takes seven to 21 days, Romarte noted that their experience shows a one-month process yields more potent results.

The Eco Park has been practicing the method regularly and has produced quality organic fertilizer. The site is also open to individuals and groups interested in learning the process.

The initiative has so far been introduced in four barangays Lorega, Barrio Luz, Kalunasan, and Mabolo with plans to expand further through coordination with the Association of Barangay Captains and the City Council.

Romarte said setting up a composting system at home may cost around P500 to P600, adding that wider adoption could significantly reduce biodegradable waste and help minimize health risks such as Leptospirosis.

He added that the long-term goal is to scale the program from households to communities, including the use of larger containers such as 200-liter drums.

City officials emphasized that discipline among residents will be crucial to the program s success, as Cebu City continues to promote sustainable, community-based solutions to its garbage concerns.