ILOILO CITY: The City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) has reported a significant increase in waste during the holiday season, noting a surge of 10 percent to 20 percent in garbage volume. The rise is attributed mainly to unsold fruits and packaging materials, marking a seasonal spike in waste production.
According to Philippines News Agency, CENRO head Neil Ravena detailed that much of the waste consisted of rotten or overripe fruits, which are traditionally used in New Year displays, such as the arrangement of 13 round fruits. Ravena also noted a decrease in firecracker debris, attributing the reduction to campaigns by the Department of Health and the Philippine National Police against firecracker use.
During the holiday peak from December 24 to January 1, waste collection in Iloilo City reached 480 tons daily, a substantial increase from the usual 400 tons. The composition of the waste included 60 percent biodegradables, 20 percent packaging materials like cartons and styrofoam, and 10 percent firecracker remnants.
To address the heightened waste levels, the city deployed three additional garbage trucks to work alongside a private contractor. Efforts were concentrated on high-traffic areas, including the terminal market, JM Basa, Iznart, and Delgado streets. By the morning of January 1, major thoroughfares were reported clean.
Ravena has urged residents to practice responsible waste disposal at designated points and to reduce the use of plastic trays and styrofoam to help decrease landfill contributions.
