In a significant environmental initiative, the City Government of Lapu-Lapu formally launched a purok-based Solid Waste Management System on February 13, 2026. This program is designed to strengthen waste segregation efforts and substantially reduce the volume of residual garbage transported to landfills, addressing pressing ecological and financial challenges.
Implementation Under City Ordinance
The system is being implemented under City Ordinance 17-016-2025, which mandates the decentralization of waste management down to the household and neighborhood levels. It requires strict segregation at the source and promotes waste reduction, reuse, and recycling practices to foster sustainable habits within the community.
Official Statements and Community Engagement
Mayor Ma. Cynthia Chan emphasized the critical need for full support and active participation from every household, school, establishment, and barangay. She stated, "We will strictly implement our solid waste management ordinances with consistent monitoring and accountability." Additionally, the government plans to upgrade and enhance the Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) to streamline the collection process and improve efficiency.
Councilor Rufo Bering, chairman of the Committee on Environment, Natural Resources, and Climate Change Adaptation and the principal author of the ordinance, highlighted the importance of community involvement. He explained that effective implementation of the local law relies heavily on collaborative efforts and engagement from residents to ensure compliance and success.
Broader Environmental Initiatives
Prior to this launch, Mayor Chan urged the Regional Development Council–7 to establish a Regional Integrated Solid Waste Management Facility. She also called for conducting a waste-to-energy feasibility study, creating a communal sanitary landfill, and strengthening waste diversion programs among local government units (LGUs). These recommendations address the rising waste volumes, limited landfill capacities, and escalating transportation costs that pose significant environmental and financial threats.
Timely and Necessary Program
Jocelyn Abayan, officer-in-charge of the City Environment and Natural Resources, described the program as "timely and necessary." She noted that it decentralizes waste management, allowing for closer monitoring at the neighborhood level and empowering communities to take direct action in managing their waste effectively.
