The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has reminded local government units (LGUs) of their critical role in waste management under the Solid Waste Management Act, a law designed to protect both public health and the environment.
The reminder comes as the city of Manila struggles with mounting garbage collection issues, highlighting the urgent need for better waste management practices. According to the DENR, each LGU is responsible for creating, implementing, and enforcing its own solid waste management plan, which must receive approval from the National Solid Waste Management Commission (NSWMC).
Effective waste management is not only essential for maintaining clean, livable cities but also for safeguarding ecosystems from harmful pollutants. The DENR emphasized that the NSWMC plays a crucial role in monitoring compliance, with the authority to investigate violations and recommend legal action if necessary.
In its statement, the DENR also assured LGUs of support, offering technical assistance to help them meet their legal obligations and ensure sustainable waste management strategies. To date, 89 percent of the nation’s LGUs—including all 16 cities in Metro Manila—have received NSWMC approval for their waste management plans.
With environmental protection at stake, experts argue that failing to implement effective waste management could exacerbate pollution levels, damage biodiversity, and harm local communities. As the country faces increasing urban waste challenges, the DENR’s reminder serves as a timely call to action for all LGUs to prioritize eco-friendly solutions in their planning and operations.
