Ilocos norte: Ilocos Norte's environment office is set to spearhead a provincewide clean-up drive this month and plans to expand the "Basura Exchange" stores as part of efforts to tackle plastic waste.

According to Philippines News Agency, pollution control officer Joegie Jimenez announced that the office is also preparing a "Basura Summit" aimed at intensifying solid waste management advocacy. The "Basura Exchange" stores, initially launched in the towns of Pasuquin and Pinili, provide residents with an opportunity to trade clean plastic bottles and wrappers for points. These points can be redeemed for essential items like groceries and school supplies.

The program is a collaborative initiative with the Liga ng mga Barangay, and Jimenez highlighted that the barangay league is planning to implement these stores in more villages this year. The goal is to reach a broader segment of the population and embed waste management practices as a routine part of daily life.

These initiatives align with Zero Waste Month, celebrated every January, which focuses on raising awareness about the importance of reducing, reusing, and recycling waste.