The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) urged Filipinos to celebrate Christmas and the New Year in an environmentally responsible way by reducing waste and practicing simple, eco-friendly habits.
In a statement released on December 24, the DENR reminded the public to follow the 5Rs of waste management—refuse, reduce, reuse, repurpose, and recycle—especially during the holiday season when waste usually increases.
The agency also emphasized the role of local government units in enforcing proper waste management under Republic Act No. 9003, or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act. According to the DENR, effective waste management starts at the household and community levels.
During a year-end press briefing, the DENR reported improvements in solid waste management nationwide, citing clearer accountability among stakeholders. It said it continues to work closely with LGUs and partners to strengthen compliance with environmental laws.
The DENR also noted progress in the implementation of the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Act. As of October 2025, more than 120 million kilograms of rigid plastics and 124 million kilograms of flexible plastics were diverted from waste, resulting in a 56.12 percent recovery rate—well above the required 40 percent target.
To help households celebrate sustainably, the DENR encouraged the use of reusable items instead of disposables, recycling paper for gift wrapping, reusing holiday decorations, bringing eco-bags when shopping, and avoiding food waste by serving reasonable portions.
The DENR stressed that small, everyday actions can make a big difference in protecting the environment while still enjoying meaningful holiday celebrations.
