Pasay city: The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) launched its 'Yes to Ayos Disiplina Campaign' in Pasay City on Thursday, focusing on students and youth as key figures in promoting a culture of discipline in Metro Manila. During the program launch at Timoteo Paez Elementary School, MMDA Chair Romando Artes led a pledge of commitment, highlighting the importance of instilling discipline in children from an early age.

According to Philippines News Agency, Artes emphasized the necessity of nurturing disciplined behavior in children to help them grow into responsible citizens. He mentioned that a future collaboration with the Department of Education is being considered to develop more programs for students in relation to the campaign.

MMDA General Manager Nicolas Torre III stated that the inclusion of students is intentional, as the agency believes that disciplined youths represent the true hope of the nation. He also urged parents to educate their children about proper waste disposal and for children to heed their parents' guidance. Torre pointed out that many of the challenges faced by the MMDA stem from a lack of discipline, especially in waste management.

Pasay City Mayor Imelda Calixto-Rubiano expressed gratitude to the MMDA for introducing the campaign to the city, noting that it extends beyond discipline to encompass responsibility. "This is what we have always wanted for Pasay City, to be the first sustainable and eco-city," she remarked.

Pasay City Congressman Antonino Calixto highlighted that the campaign will guide communities toward greater excellence and discipline, stressing that maintaining roads and communities is a shared responsibility. "True change begins only when there is discipline in our hearts. Take this to heart so we can have a pleasant place to live in the future," Calixto stated.

The event also showcased the Eco-TINGIndahan initiative led by the Mother Earth Foundation, which provided free rice, fish sauce, vinegar, and oil in exchange for recyclable materials. This was alongside the MMDA's Recyclables Mo, Palit Grocery Ko program. The MMDA initially launched the Yes to Ayos Disiplina Campaign in Malabon City on April 22, in alignment with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s directive to foster discipline and civic responsibility among the public. The campaign has since expanded to other cities, with a previous rollout in Pateros on May 21.