By Kenneth Marcos 
In a quiet multipurpose hall in Sitio De Asis, Barangay San Martin De Porres, Parañaque, residents gathered not just for a seminar—but for a shared mission: to learn how to better protect their environment and future.
More than 50 locals from different neighborhood associations in Sitio GSIS, De Asis, Malugay, Sto. Niño, Pag-Asa, and Sampalocan came together for the “Dalaw Turo” session conducted by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Metropolitan Environmental Office South (DENR MEO-South).
The activity aimed to increase public awareness about proper waste segregation, reducing the effects of climate change, and encouraging long-term community involvement in environmental care.
One of the key partners in the event was the Leighton–First Balfour Joint Venture (LFBJV), which is currently involved in infrastructure development in the area. Ms. Ela Suratos, a representative from LFBJV, discussed how the company is complying with its Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC). She shared efforts being made to reduce the environmental impact of their ongoing project.
Tim Bernard A. Polidario, River Protection Officer I from MEO-South, led the main discussion. He explained in simple terms the causes and effects of climate change and emphasized the role of individual and community action in solving the crisis. He also introduced the work of MEO-South in enforcing environmental programs in Metro Manila’s southern districts.
The session also featured guest speakers from the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) in Parañaque.
Ms. Ronalyn R. Matias introduced the “Order ni M.R.S.” initiative, which promotes the use of Material Recovery Systems (MRS) at the household level, especially among women. These systems help reduce waste by encouraging families to sort, reuse, and recycle materials properly.
Mr. Neil O. Ricafort, Environmental Management Specialist II, gave an overview of Republic Act 9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000. He also explained City Ordinance No. 17-22, which penalizes littering in Parañaque. According to Ricafort, enforcing these laws plays a big role in keeping communities clean and safe.
Forester Ronalen D. Candelario, EMS I, introduced the Kitchen Waste Collection with Composting Program. This project teaches residents how to compost their kitchen waste, turning food scraps into organic fertilizer that can be used for backyard gardening—an eco-friendly and practical solution for many urban families.
The DENR MEO-South stressed that more activities like this will be held in the coming months to strengthen environmental education and encourage deeper community participation. By building awareness and strengthening partnerships between government and citizens, the agency hopes to build safer, greener neighborhoods across Metro Manila.
Environmental protection is not just the job of the government. It starts with informed and empowered citizens who care enough to make small changes—like separating trash, joining clean-up drives, and rethinking daily habits that harm the planet.
Pwersa Balita – Your Trusted Source in Agri News