City Hall’s SP launches ‘zero waste’ campaign

CEBU, Philippines — The Cebu City government has launched its “zero waste” program at the Sangguniang Panglungsod’s Secretariat Office at the City Hall.

The city’s Solid Waste Board (SWB) felt that it is best to begin such practice at their own “home.”

SWB’s Executive Director Reymar Hijara told The FREEMAN that the SP’s participation in this campaign is voluntary in nature, although they also hope for the other departments to be actively involved in this.

The launch, Hijara said, was attended by Atty. Charisse Piramide, head of the SP Secretariat Office, along with Acting Vice Mayor Donaldo “Dondon” Hontiveros and fellow Councilor Joel Garganera, some representatives from the other departments, the private sector as well as some senior high students from the Ramon Duterte Memorial High School.

“Our commitment to environmental responsibility and the long-term well-being of our communities is unwavering. This initiative is a crucial step towards achieving a sustainable, waste-free future for the city of Cebu,” said Hiraja.

The Zero Waste Campaign Program aims to significantly reduce waste generation, enhance resource conservation, and promote a circular economy by encouraging the reuse, recycling, and recovery of resources.

With the support and cooperation of the Sangguniang Panlungsod Secretariat Office, Hijara believes that it can create a lasting impact on our city’s waste management practices.

As part of one’s commitment to the said campaign, the SP had pledged to educate and empower Sangguniang Panlungsod Secretariat Office employees on zero waste and sustainable waste management principles.

Those involved are also expected to implement waste reduction strategies which include the elimination of single-use plastics, promote reusable materials, office-wide recycling, and composting programs, regular assessment and monitoring of waste reduction progress and seeking opportunities for improvement.

Aside from that, the SP and the rest are also challenged to engage with other Cebu City Hall departments and offices, local businesses, and community stakeholders and encourage them to participate in zero waste efforts.

Hiraja also stressed that each employee plays a vital role in the zero waste initiatives’ success.

“By implementing these measures, we hope to inspire and motivate other offices and institutions to adopt zero waste practices, contributing to a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable Cebu City. As we work together to protect our environment, we will continue to strive for a future where waste is a thing of the past,” ended Hijara. —/GAN (FREEMAN)