Baguio: Residents here are encouraged to join and earn prizes in the ecological solid waste management and sustainability fair event at the People's Park on Sunday and in the La Trinidad, Benguet grounds on April 29, as part of the observance of Earth Day 2025.

According to Philippines News Agency, Jean Borromeo, the regional director of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Environment Management Bureau (DENR-EMB) Cordillera, emphasized the environment's 'need to be clean and dry to avoid odor and sanitation issues.' The initiative encourages residents to turn in and sell items such as plastic bags, glass bottles, jars, aluminum cans, PET (polyethylene terephthalate) bottles, sachets, newspapers, office papers, cartons, scrap metals, and tin cans during the events.

Additionally, flexible plastic wrappers and labels, regardless of brand, can be exchanged for Universal Robina Corp. products, providing further incentives for participation. Community organizations, schools, and barangays are also invited to join competitions, with cash prizes and certificates of commendation up for grabs. Categories include the 'Basura Champion' for the individual collecting the most recyclables and others like 'Young Once Champion,' 'Eco-youth Champion,' 'Early Bird Champion,' and 'Clean-up Eco-Warrior.'

Aileen Refuerzo, chief information officer of Baguio, noted the local government's commitment to regularly holding environment-related activities, as mandated by an ordinance that institutionalizes the eco-waste sustainability fair every quarter. She highlighted the economic benefits of waste segregation, stating, "there is really money in garbage," and expressed hope that residents will recognize the importance of selling recyclable materials to reduce waste generation in Baguio.