Two partnership agreements were entered into by the city government of Victorias in Negros Occidental June 2, aimed at strengthening environmental sustainability initiatives.
Mayor Abelardo Bantug III led the back-to-back ceremonial signing of partnership on plastic waste management with Subay Marketing Inc., and the “Grow a Forest Project” with Victorias Milling Company (VMC) Foundation Inc. to be implemented across barangays I and XI.
He stressed that the partnerships serve as a model for environmental responsibility, innovation, and inclusive growth. “The agreement is a testament to what can be achieved when different sectors unite behind a common purpose.”
For the plastic waste management agreement, Bantug signed the agreement with Subay Marketing Inc. co-founder and chief development officer Lemar Ledesma, Lanie Fegarido, and Victorias City Environment and Natural Resources Office (VCENRO) officer-in-charge Lara Ann Garcia.
The partnership establishes a comprehensive plastic waste collection program integrated with the enforcement and operations of the VCENRO, the city said, adding that Ledesma stressed the importance of collaboration among stakeholders, and that the initiative contributes not only to environmental protection but also to nation-building efforts.
For the reforestation initiative, the mayor formalized the agreement with VMC Foundation Inc. president Engr. Linley Retirado, Garcia, Leonel Castillo, and punong barangays Helen Detoyato of Brgy. I and Mary Pugna of XI.
Retirado said the “Grow a Forest Project” will prioritize native tree species, strengthen project design, and monitor ecological and social outcomes.
The next steps involve finalizing project handover and initiating preparatory work and implementation timelines in the recipient barangays, he added as he reaffirmed the foundation’s commitment to supporting Victorias through partnerships anchored on transparency, collaboration, and shared responsibility for environmental sustainability.
The partnerships are expected to strengthen environmental programs and advance long-term initiatives toward a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable Victorias, the city added. ||
