BANGAR, La Union (PIA) — The municipal government of Bangar, La Union reaffirmed its dedication to environmental conservation through a clean-up drive held and tree planting held at Barangay Sinapangan Norte on Dec. 20.
The activity, conducted under the Department of the Interior and Local Government’s (DILG) Kalinisan sa Bagong Pilipinas program, brought together 107 participants, including representatives from government agencies, private sectors, youth organizations, barangay officials, and residents.
Together, they collected approximately 4.65 kilograms of waste, including plastics, discarded household items, and other non-biodegradable materials.
The clean-up operation targeted roadsides, drainage canals, and public spaces, ensuring these areas were cleared of debris and pollutants.
Michael Karl Flores, senior environmental management specialist of the local government unit (LGU), commended the initiative, which he says exemplifies commitment to creating a cleaner and healthier environment.
“The Kalinisan sa Bagong Pilipinas reflects the spirit of bayanihan, which continues to guide us in addressing environmental challenges together. Every effort, no matter how small, contributes to making Bangar a model for sustainability,” Flores said.
Tree-planting for sustainability
In support of La Union’s Kalikasan Naman program, the event also included a tree-planting activity, where participants planted over 100 fruit-bearing and non-fruit-bearing seedlings. These included tamarind, rambutan, and mahogany, chosen for their ecological benefits such as shade, carbon sequestration, and habitat for local wildlife.
Sinapangan Norte Barangay Captain Edilberto Villanueva emphasized the long-term impact of these activities.
“By working together, we can ensure a sustainable future for our barangay and beyond. The tree-planting activity symbolizes growth and hope for future generations,” Villanueva explained.
Community participation
Residents were also encouraged to adopt waste reduction strategies, including composting and minimizing single-use plastics.
The Kalinisan sa Bagong Pilipinas program aims to unite government and community efforts, empowering LGUs to implement eco-friendly practices while raising public awareness on proper waste management and environmental responsibility.
The clean-up drive marked a significant milestone in Bangar’s journey toward becoming a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable municipality.
This effort calls on other communities to take active roles in protecting and preserving the environment for future generations. (CCMT/KJCR, PIA La Union)
