Iloilo Launches 5Rs Campaign for Zero Waste Month

By Mariela Angella Oladive

The Iloilo provincial government launched its 5Rs Waste Management campaign on Jan. 6 as part of the National Zero Waste Month celebration, emphasizing the principles of reduce, reuse, recycle, repurpose, and rot.

The campaign aims to encourage residents and communities to adopt environmentally responsible practices to minimize solid waste.

The Provincial Government Environment and Natural Resources Office (PGENRO) led the launch during the province’s first flag ceremony of the year at the Capitol grounds. PGENRO also introduced the “Limpyo Dalanon” (Clean Roads) program, which engages communities in cleaning public spaces.

Month-Long Activities

PGENRO has planned several activities throughout January to raise awareness and provide solutions for waste management.

From Jan. 13 to 17, the office will hold “5Rs Hinun-anon” (discussion) sessions and solid waste management demonstrations in various municipalities. These sessions aim to teach practical techniques for effective waste disposal.

As part of the “Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan 2025” festivities, PGENRO will conduct a monitoring and evaluation program from Jan. 20 to 26. This process will assess local government units’ compliance with waste management regulations and their implementation of the 5Rs campaign.

The campaign will conclude on Jan. 31 with a learning exposure event showcasing solid waste management technologies and best practices in the province.

Key Programs for Sustainability

Iloilo province continues to demonstrate its commitment to sustainable waste management through three flagship programs that promote recycling and the reduction of plastic waste.

The Tapon to Ipon Project, a partnership with Coca-Cola Beverages Philippines, Inc. (CCBPI), focuses on collecting and recycling PET bottles. Collection hubs have been set up in various municipalities to ensure that these bottles are properly processed and reused.

To address the problem of single-use plastics, the Balik Alat Program encourages the adoption of eco-friendly alternatives like handwoven baskets. This initiative has gained traction, with 38 of Iloilo’s 43 local government units already implementing ordinances that regulate the use of single-use plastics.

Meanwhile, the Trash in a Bottle Program offers an innovative approach to recycling by repurposing discarded plastic bottles into valuable products. This initiative not only reduces plastic waste but also demonstrates the potential of turning waste into resources that benefit the community.

Presidential Proclamation No. 760 designates January as National Zero Waste Month to promote sustainable waste management practices nationwide.