The local government of Sta. Ana in Pampanga is setting its sights on an ambitious environmental transformation project. Officials are now eyeing the development of a community eco-park within the premises of its Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) located in Barangay San Nicolas.
From Controversial Site to Green Space
This facility carries a controversial history, having been ordered closed by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) back in 2021 after being identified as an open dumpsite. The closure order highlighted significant environmental concerns that needed immediate attention from local authorities.
High-Level Inspection and Support
On Tuesday, January 27, Mayor Ferdinand "Dinan" Labung led a comprehensive inspection of the facility alongside key provincial officials. The inspection team included Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) head Art Punzalan and Department of the Interior and Local Government–Pampanga Director Myra Soriano, demonstrating strong inter-agency support for the proposed transformation.
Mayor Labung emphasized that the development of the MRF and proper garbage collection from households rank among the top priorities of his administration. The local government has been strictly implementing a 'no segregation, no collection' policy designed to minimize solid waste throughout the municipality.
Transformation Already Underway
Visitors to the site can already witness significant changes. The Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office has planted numerous trees and plants that now surround the facility. Community amenities including swings, slides, and constructed gazebos have been installed where families can play and spend quality time together.
"What was once a garbage dump that people couldn't approach because of the smell will become an eco-park that our citizens will visit," Mayor Labung declared with evident pride in the ongoing transformation.
Provincial Government Commitment
The provincial government has committed substantial support to the project. Officials have pledged to donate bamboo seedlings for the facility, while PENRO head Art Punzalan has promised to establish a nursery for fruit-bearing and forest trees that will provide residents with seedlings for planting initiatives.
"The Capitol's support is complete because such waste management programs greatly help Governor Nanay's health advocacy," Punzalan explained. "Waste is one of the causes of illness, and we know that's what Governor Nanay is fighting against first."
Administration Priorities and Community Discipline
Mayor Labung highlighted the importance of discipline and political will in implementing effective waste management programs. "I am thankful to my colleagues in the municipal government for their help in beautifying and properly implementing our programs, and for the solidarity of my fellow citizens," the mayor stated during the inspection.
With the visible improvements already taking shape at the facility, the establishment of a full eco-park within the MRF compound is now being seriously considered by local officials.
A Provincial First
Once realized, the Sta. Ana MRF will achieve a significant milestone by becoming the first facility of its kind in Pampanga province to feature its own dedicated eco-park. This innovative approach to waste facility management could potentially serve as a model for other municipalities facing similar environmental challenges.
The project represents a remarkable turnaround for a site that was once considered an environmental liability, now being transformed into a community asset that promotes both environmental sustainability and family recreation.
