10/04/2025
The Hospitality and Tourism Student Group 6, under the subject of Legal Aspects in Tourism, recently carried out a thorough cleaning initiative at the Buntun Bridge and the Cagayan River. This effort was in line with the Clean Water Act of 2004 (Republic Act No. 9275), which regulates water quality management in tourism areas, particularly in locations near beaches, lakes, and rivers.
Upon arriving at the site, the students were confronted with a variety of waste and garbage scattered around the area, even though there were tourists present, enjoying picnics and leisurely activities. During the cleaning initiative, a local resident approached the students and remarked, "Halla, nakakahiya naman, nagkakalat kami tapos naglilinis kayo." This provided the students with an opportunity to engage in a conversation about the advocacy behind their activity. The locals acknowledged the importance of the effort, with one of them saying, "Maganda iyang ginagawa niyo, nakakatulong kayo sa kalikasan." This conversation helped reinforce the purpose of the students’ actions, which was not only to clean up but also to raise awareness about the importance of keeping the environment clean.
In addition to supporting the Clean Water Act, this initiative also incorporates the provisions of Republic Act 9003, or the Comprehensive Solid Waste Management Act. This law provides a comprehensive framework for managing solid waste, focusing on waste reduction, reuse, recycling, and environmentally responsible disposal methods. The students’ cleaning activity is in full compliance with these goals, contributing to both the immediate cleanliness of the area and the long-term environmental protection of the community.
