QUEZON CITY, (PIA) — The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), through the Metro Manila Flood Management Project (MMFMP), is advancing community-based solid waste management (SWM) initiatives with a series of seminars aimed at educating local residents.
The seminars focus on the environmental impact and benefits of proper solid waste management practices, including waste segregation, recovery, recycling, and disposal. The initiative seeks to equip barangays with the knowledge to turn effective waste management into an economic asset, motivating communities to adopt sustainable practices.
Recently, an extensive workshop was held during one of the Mobile Materials Recovery Facility (MMRF) operations, with over 50 participants from Barangay 154 learning practical applications of SWM principles.
The MMDA emphasized the immediate benefits of proper waste management while introducing new techniques to enhance the value of recyclable materials.
Since July 17, 2024, a total of 769 residents from 20 barangays in Vitas have participated in the program, highlighting increasing community interest in sustainable waste management.
“The Solid Waste Management seminar exemplifies our commitment to educating and empowering communities to see the value in waste,” said MMDA Chairman Romando Artes. “By providing practical knowledge and showcasing real-life success stories, we aim to inspire more people to participate in sustainable practices.”
MMDA SWMO Director Josias E. Syquimsiam, Jr. added, “Through initiatives like the Pera Sa Basura seminar, we are not only teaching waste management techniques but also showing communities how these practices can directly benefit their daily lives.”
The seminar demonstrated that waste materials, when properly managed, can be transformed into valuable commodities. Participants learned about a barter system through the MMRF, where they can exchange recyclables for groceries and other goods, with a point system ensuring fair compensation.
Activities included “Segre-game Time,” an interactive game focused on waste segregation, and “Role-Trash Trivia,” where participants answered questions to earn prizes. These engaging activities reinforced the importance of proper waste management while making learning enjoyable.
Community leaders expressed their commitment to sustaining MMRF operations, emphasizing the importance of educating residents about the economic and environmental benefits of effective waste management.
Mary Grace Capulong, Barangay Secretary from Barangay 154, remarked, “Our community has embraced the idea that waste is not just trash but a resource that can be converted into something valuable.”
The MMDA and MMFMP plan to continue these seminars in other barangays, encouraging more residents to participate and helping to build a more sustainable Metro Manila. (GLG/PIA-NCR)
