Councilor: Keep those garbage trucks covered

CEBU, Philippines - “Some garbage trucks have been negligent,” Talisay City Councilor Antonio D. Bacaltos said, as he urged Mayor Johnny V. de los Reyes to mandate the implementing agency of the city to strictly implement the “Ecological Solid Waste Management Act” which requires all garbage trucks to be covered while travelling to ensure containment of solid waste.

Section 10 of R.A 9003 and pursuant to the relevant provisions of R.A. No. 7160, otherwise known as the Local Government Code, states that the LGUs shall be primarily responsible for the implementation and enforcement of the provisions of this Act within their respective jurisdictions.

Section 24. of R.A 9003 defines the requirements for the Transport of Solid Waste and states that the waste compartment shall have a cover to ensure the containment of solid wastes while in transit.

Bacaltos said violators shall be meted a corresponding fine.

“It is with understanding that as the implementing agency of the law, the LGU must set an example for everyone to follow,” Bacaltos.

Meanwhile, city Councilor Valeriano Ylanan has asked the Office of the Mayor for a garbage truck for barangay Biasong.

Ylanan said due to financial constraints, the barangay cannot afford to buy a truck.

“There is a need to efficiently collect, transport, and dispose of solid waste within the municipality and promote an orderly and sanitary condition of surrounding. There is a need to ensure the protection of the public health and environment,” he said. (FREEMAN)