The local government of San Carlos in Negros Occidental was recognized by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources for Best Practices on Ecological Solid Waste Management during the 25th signing anniversary of Republic Act 9003, or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000, in Quezon City Jan. 27.
The award was given by DENR-Environmental Management Bureau concurrent director and assistant secretary for Environment Jacqueline Caancan, and received by San Carlos Councilor Arthur Batomalaque, chairperson of the Sangguniang Panlungsod Committee on Environmental Protection and Natural Resources, accompanied by EMB-Negros Island Region OIC Vicente Losbañes.
The recognition reflects San Carlos’ sustained efforts in implementing innovative and community-driven ecological solid waste management programs, serving as a model for local government units nationwide, the city said.
The milestone event featured panel discussions and open fora, information booths, and the signing of a Pledge of Commitment and Digital Pledge, and a recognition ceremony honoring exemplary local government units and partners in ecological solid waste management.
San Carlos represented the NIR in the ceremony also attended by DENR Secretary Raphael Lotilla, undersecretary for Field Operations (Luzon and Visayas) Juan Miguel Cuna, and Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, who signed into law RA 9003 when she was president.
The three-day commemoration of the 25th signing anniversary of RA 9003, on the theme “RA 9003@25: Honoring our Past, Renewing Commitments, Innovating for a Cleaner Tomorrow”, brought together national and local government agencies, the private sector, and other stakeholders to reflect on key milestones, persistent challenges, and strategies in the implementation of ecological solid waste management nationwide.
It featured panel discussions and exhibits showcasing ecological solid waste management innovations, including initiatives on Extended Producer Responsibility, and the recognition of exemplary LGUs, EMB regional offices, and winners of the music video and filmmaking contest. ||
