• CHERYL G. CRUZ
The Bacolod Sangguniang Panlungsod has directed the IPM Construction and Development Corp. (IPM-CDC), to intensify garbage collection and to promptly clear piles of uncollected garbage in major thoroughfares, and in and around the MassKara Festival sites.
The SP approved this afternoon, Oct. 18, a resolution authored by Councilor Em Ang, who stressed that “the unsightly piles of garbage negatively affect the image of Bacolod City as a tourism destination.”
Ang added the inefficient solid waste management may also reduce the tourism value of the colorful and highly-acclaimed MassKara Festival that is now on its highlight week, with thousands of revelers expected to watch the electric float parade on Oct. 21, and the street and arena dance competition on Oct. 22.
She noted complaints of uncollected garbage, or delayed collection of trash from commercial establishments in the city’s downtown, major thoroughfares frequented by visitors, and areas surrounding the festival sites.
“The influx of tourists and festival goers results in the large generation of waste and can negatively affect the local environment because of the visitors′ increased activities,” the resolution said, hence the need for intensified and prompt collection of garbage. | CGC
