Legazpi City: The Environmental Management Bureau in the Bicol Region (EMB-5) has called on local government units (LGUs) to implement solid waste management rigorously, particularly at the barangay or village level. EMB-5 Regional Director Maria Socorro Abu emphasized that effective waste management is a shared responsibility beginning at the household level, which should be managed by the barangays. Abu highlighted the importance of enforcing the 'no segregation, no collection' policy to prevent larger waste management issues.
According to Philippines News Agency, Abu stated the EMB-5 is ready to offer technical assistance and training to LGUs, partner agencies, government offices, non-governmental organizations, and other stakeholders. She noted that having a 10-year solid waste management plan is crucial for LGUs seeking the Department of the Interior and Local Government's Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG). Currently, 87 percent of the 120 LGUs in the region have complied with the 10-Year Solid Waste Management Plan.
Abu detailed that the Bicol region comprises 107 towns, seven cities, and six provinces, with 87 percent having approved their 10-Year Solid Waste Management Plans in line with Republic Act 9003, the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000. She acknowledged the achievement and the challenges faced by LGUs, particularly in finding sites for sanitary landfills, with hopes for full compliance by 2025. She commended the provinces of Albay and Camarines Norte for completing their plans and recognized the progress in Sorsogon and Camarines Sur.
Abu also praised specific LGUs for their innovative practices in recycling and waste utilization. In Sorsogon's Bulan, waste is converted into plastic chairs, while Tabaco City in Albay manufactures bricks from waste. Virac in Catanduanes transforms waste tires into usable products like chairs, and Masbate repurposes recycled election paraphernalia into bags and household items.
In a separate discussion, Guillermo Molina IV, regional director of the Mines and Geosciences Bureau in Bicol (MGB-5), reported ongoing monitoring of mining companies to ensure adherence to waste management regulations. He cited Filminera Resources Corporation's effective management of rock waste, which includes transporting waste to designated areas and rehabilitating sites through tree planting. Molina confirmed that all four mining companies in the region comply with solid waste management standards.
The press conference was part of a series of events marking the 2025 Environment Month.
