02/06/2026
Towards Zero Waste: DILG Caloocan, Caloocan City and DENR EMB NCR Unite for Estero Clean-Up
In a strong demonstration of environmental stewardship and inter-agency collaboration, the DILG Caloocan joined forces with the DENR Environmental Management Bureau - National Capital Region (EMB-NCR) in conducting a Communication, Education, and Public Awareness (CEPA) Campaign and Estero Clean-Up Activity at Villa Emelda, Tawid Area, Barangay 178, Caloocan City.
The initiative brought together key stakeholders from various government agencies, including the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Department of Health (DOH), the City Government of Caloocan through its City Environmental Management Department (CEMD), Barangay 178 officials, and community volunteers.
Their collective participation underscored the importance of a united approach in addressing environmental challenges and promoting sustainable waste management practices.
The activity commenced with a CEPA session designed to raise awareness and empower residents with knowledge on proper solid waste management, climate change adaptation, circular economy principles, and the significance of maintaining clean and healthy esteros. Participants gained valuable insights into how individual actions contribute to environmental protection and community well-being.
More than an educational campaign, the clean-up activity served as a concrete step toward achieving the national goal of โZero Waste to Philippine Waters by 2040โ under the National Plan of Action for the Prevention, Reduction, and Management of Marine Litter (NPOA-ML).
The initiative also supports the implementation of DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2025-099, which directs local government units to integrate marine litter prevention and management strategies into their Solid Waste Management Programs.
Barangay 178 Punong Barangay Editha Labasbas expressed her appreciation to the participating agencies, city representatives, barangay officials, and community volunteers for their unwavering support and active involvement in the clean-up effort. She emphasized that partnerships such as these are vital in fostering environmental responsibility and creating lasting positive impacts within the community.
Meanwhile, Ms. Annabelle Wahing of DENR EMB-NCR highlighted the importance of public participation in environmental protection efforts. She stressed that safeguarding the environment is a shared responsibility that requires the cooperation of government agencies, local communities, and other stakeholders working toward a common goal.
The collective effort yielded remarkable results, with approximately 2,098 kilograms of mixed wasteโequivalent to 247 sacks of trashโsuccessfully collected from the estero and surrounding areas. This accomplishment not only improved the condition of the waterway but also demonstrated the power of community action in addressing environmental concerns.
As Caloocan continues to advance its environmental programs, initiatives such as the CEPA Campaign and Estero Clean-Up serve as a reminder that meaningful change begins with awareness, collaboration, and active participation. Through sustained partnerships and community engagement, the vision of cleaner waterways and a waste-free future becomes increasingly attainable.
Together, every clean-up effort brings communities one step closer to a healthier environment and a more sustainable future for generations to come.
