28/01/2026
Davao del Norte Celebrates Zero Waste Month, 25th RA 9003 Anniversary with United Cleanup Drive
In line with the observance of the 2026 National Zero Waste Month and the celebration of the 25th Anniversary of Republic Act No. 9003, also known as the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000, the Provincial Government of Davao del Norte, through the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO), actively participated in the annual environmental celebration on January 28, 2026.
The activity was held under the theme “Honoring our past, renewing commitments, innovating for a cleaner tomorrow,” highlighting the collective efforts of government agencies and key stakeholders in advancing sustainable waste management practices. The event further strengthened partnerships in promoting waste reduction, proper segregation at source, and recycling as essential components of environmental protection and responsible resource management. The PENRO, headed by Mr. Nelson F. Plata, MPA, EnP, was represented by For. Ro-ann V. Grancho, together with personnel from the Environment and Climate Change Division.
The celebration was spearheaded by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (DENR-CENRO) New Corella, led by For. Marites D. Jocson, and was participated in by various partner agencies, including the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) of LGU Tagum City, Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) – Davao del Norte, Philippine National Police (PNP), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), as well as Barangay Officials and Functionaries of Barangays Mankilam and San Miguel, Tagum City.
A major highlight of the activity was a cleanup drive at Garciaville Creek, a known tributary of the Tagum–Libuganon River. The joint effort resulted in the cleaning of an estimated 600-meter stretch of the creek, with approximately 350 kilograms of waste collected, consisting predominantly of residual waste. The activity underscored the continuing challenges in solid waste management and the importance of sustained community participation in protecting waterways and downstream ecosystems.
Through this collaborative initiative, the Provincial Government of Davao del Norte reaffirmed its commitment to environmental stewardship, inter-agency cooperation, and the full implementation of RA 9003, as it continues to promote responsible waste management and environmental sustainability for present and future generations.
