SWM board, TWG meet to review programs, raise field concerns

Solid waste management efforts in the province were taken up during the 1st Quarter meeting of the Provincial Solid Waste Management Board (PSWMB) and Technical Working Group (TWG) held on March 26 at the LMP Building in San Gregorio, Luna.

The meeting was led by Atty. Zaide E. Ravelo, GSO and PSWMB Co-Chairperson, together with Board Member Hector Reuel D. Pascua, chair of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan Committee on Environment, and PENR Officer Rainier D. Balbuena, bringing together provincial offices, municipal environment units, and partner agencies.

Participants included representatives from PENRO, MENROs, DENR, DILG, DepEd, Apayao State College, PNP, and the General Services Office.

Among the items taken up were the post-evaluation of solid waste management during the 31st Apayao Founding Anniversary, updates on implementation at the provincial capitol, and proposed changes to the criteria for the Search for the Most Eco-Friendly School and Municipality.

The body also looked into provisions of the Environmental Code related to solid waste, along with a proposal presented by the Department of Trade and Industry. Updates on the status of the 10-year solid waste management plans of municipalities were also presented.

Field concerns were raised during the discussion, including the condition of access roads leading to sanitary landfill sites and the need for additional equipment such as garbage compactors.

To address these, members pointed to the need for stronger information campaigns, consistent enforcement of existing rules, and clearer house-level practices such as waste segregation and Clean As You Go.

The PNP signified support for ongoing efforts, particularly in information drives and enforcement.

The meeting closed with agreement among agencies to continue coordination on implementation and monitoring of solid waste management programs in the province.