SECRETARY CIMATU’S MAIN PRIORITY IS TO IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF OUR ENVIRONMENT, PARTICULARLY OUR AIR, WATER AND ADDRESS SOLID WASTE PROBLEMS. THUS, THE DENR WILL BE IMPLEMENTING ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION PROGRAMS AND PROJECTS.

FOR SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT, OUR PRIORITY ACTIVITIES ARE THE FOLLOWING: (1) CLOSURE OF DUMPSITES; AND (2) ESTABLISHMENT OF MATERIAL RECOVERY FACILITIES (MRFS)

The Philippines has endeavored to improve its management of solid waste through the passage of RA 9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act that provides for a systematic, comprehensive and ecological waste management program to ensure the protection of public health and the environment.  It mandates the bureau to provide secretariat support to the National Solid Waste Management Commission in the implementation of the solid waste management plans and prescribes policies to achieve the objectives of the National Ecology Center that is in charge of information dissemination, consultation, education and training of various local government units on ecological waste management.

The ecological solid waste management program is expected to assist Local Government Units in implementing RA 9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act particularly in the development of their 10 yr. SWM Plan, closure and rehabilitation of dumpsites, establishment of Materials Recovery Facilities, and an environmentally sound disposal system.

The issuance of Guidelines and provisions of technical support in the establishment and operation of Waste To Energy facilities will enhance the sustainability of disposal system for municipal residual wastes to all provinces and highly urbanized areas. The significant contribution of this project is expected to enhance the economic development of the country through formalizing the waste collection and recycling, and promotion of job opportunities. It also helps the economy to reduce reliance on imported oils and increased in power generation.