21/01/2026
The Municipality of Lemery, in partnership with Lemery National High School, successfully conducted “Strengthening Environmental Stewardship under RA 9003: Ceremonial Signing of Memorandum of Understanding for the Implementation of the Trash to Treasure Project.”
The activity was participated in by Lemery National High School (YES-O, SSLG, BERT, DRMM), Anabo National High School (YES-O), Northern Iloilo State University (NISU–YES-O), People’s Organizations, and other valued stakeholders, reflecting strong multi-sectoral support for environmental protection and sustainable solid waste management.
Welcome remarks were delivered by Forester Hannan B. Oncio, MPDC/MENRO Designate, followed by the Project Overview presented by Dr. Abe M. Erazo, School Principal of Lemery National High School.
Message of Support was delivered by Hon. Oscar C. Villegas, Jr., Municipal Mayor of the Municipality of Lemery, expressing the full commitment of the Local Government Unit in environmental stewardship and sustainable initiatives. Furthermore, Message of Support and an overview of Republic Act No. 9003 were delivered by Ms. Nidalyn P. Agsaluna, Chief of the Solid Waste Management Section of DENR-EMB, highlighting the importance of proper waste management and the transformation of waste into valuable resources. Another Message of Support was given by Forester Shenna Marie R. Cambel, representative of the Iloilo Provincial Government Environment and Natural Resources Office (IPGENRO).
The highlight of the activity was the Ceremonial Signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), signifying a shared commitment and formal partnership between the Municipality of Lemery and Lemery National High School. The MOU serves as a vital framework to ensure the effective implementation, sustainability, and success of the Trash to Treasure Project, translating environmental stewardship under RA 9003 into concrete actions that turn waste into valuable resources.
The program concluded with the Closing Remarks delivered by Hon. Limwel T. Arban, Sangguniang Bayan Member and Chairman of the Committee on Natural Resources and Environmental Protection, who reaffirmed the importance of continued collaboration and collective responsibility in safeguarding the environment.