Bangued: The municipal government of Bangued, Abra is advancing its solid waste management initiative by transforming waste into viable products. Mayor Perfecto Cardenas stated that the strategy is intended to minimize waste while fostering livelihood opportunities for local communities. He further mentioned the local government's plans to enhance waste segregation and recycling initiatives to extend benefits to all 31 barangays.

According to Philippines News Agency, Cardenas expressed that they are devising a system where all barangays can benefit from waste segregation. The municipality has introduced bio-composting, bottle crushers, and pulverizer machines, with plans to supply recycled materials to those involved in concrete product manufacturing. The mayor emphasized that recycled products could create income streams for barangays and provide livelihood prospects for residents.

Cardenas highlighted the aim for residents to experience firsthand the notion that there is value in garbage. The municipality is upgrading its materials recovery facilities to broaden services and is reinforcing waste segregation at the source. Currently, garbage collection and waste segregation are confined to barangays in the town center; however, the local government is crafting a comprehensive system to be implemented across all villages.

The initiative is a component of Bangued's 10-year solid waste management program, calling for full implementation and enhanced public participation. Cardenas reiterated that solid waste management is a primary focus for the local government of Bangued and underscored the necessity for collective action. Information and education campaigns are being conducted in barangays, schools, and business establishments to encourage public engagement. Community lectures and school-based campaigns aim to instill proper waste management practices, especially waste segregation, at the source.