Brgys urged to put up waste markets

CEBU, Philippines - The 22 barangays in Talisay City are encouraged to conduct a regular “waste market” or  recycling event as part of their solid waste management program and their contribution to the city’s bid to address the problems on garbage.

In a proposed resolution Number 2015-05-1, City Councilor Richard Francis "Choy" Aznar said the conduct of recycling event or  "waste market" in the barangay is one effective strategy to encourage the residents to segregate and contribute to the reduction of waste generated at source.

"The recycling event shall also provide additional income to the households and institutionalize public participation in the solid waste management programs of the City of Talisay," said Aznar, who is the chairman of the Committee on Health.

Aznar said under Republic Act 9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000, local government units are mandated to implement programs to protect the environment, set guidelines and targets for solid waste avoidance and volume reduction, including recycling, re-use, and recovery processes.

Aznar said with the launching of the program, the barangay can establish its own guidelines and policies to ensure the effective implementation and voluntary compliance of the residents.

"The move is a clear manifestation of the City of Talisay's continuous effort to eradicate the volume of waste towards holistic development," Aznar added. — Garry B. Lao (FREEMAN)