A BOLD STEP TOWARDS A CLEANER FUTURE

AS the curtains rise on 2024, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has embarked on a resounding initiative, setting a powerful tone for the year with the launch of a nationwide clean-up program. The call to action, extended to all newly-elected Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan officials, underscores a commitment to addressing the persistent issues of pollution and waste management that have plagued the Philippines for years.

In his address marking the “National Community Development Day” on January 6, President Marcos emphasized the crucial role of “bayanihan” in fostering a healthier and safer environment. The invocation of this spirit of communal unity reflects a deep understanding that the battle against pollution is not one that can be fought by the government alone but requires the collective efforts of every citizen.

President Marcos, while acknowledging that the concept of a dedicated day for community development is not new, stressed the timeless ideals that it aims to achieve. The vision is clear – communities characterized by peace, progress, and residents who not only take care of themselves but also of each other. It is a vision of neighbors working together for a future they collectively deserve and dream of.

The Kalinisan sa Bagong Pilipinas program, spearheaded by the Marcos administration, is more than just a cleanup drive. It is a holistic approach to raising awareness and encouraging active participation among Filipino citizens in environmental responsibility through proper solid waste management. By encouraging local government units to invest in programs, projects, and activities centered around solid waste management and ecological practices, the initiative seeks to instill a sense of responsibility at the grassroots level.

A particularly commendable aspect of the program is the establishment of a recognition system for the cleanest local government units. This incentivizes healthy competition among regions to excel in environmental sustainability, promoting a race to the top in cleanliness and responsible waste management.

Interior Secretary Benjamin “Benhur” Abalos, a key figure in the implementation of the program, announced that the cleanup will be simultaneous in all barangays nationwide, emphasizing inclusivity and the universality of the initiative. Streets, canals, waterways, public markets, schools, and public parks will be the focal points, ensuring a comprehensive effort to cleanse the community.

Moreover, the engagement of beneficiaries of Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD), along with students and teachers in public schools and state universities, adds a layer of inclusivity that is heartening. The involvement of civil society organizations and volunteers further widens the net, turning this into a true national movement.

President Marcos’ call for participation is not merely a ceremonial gesture but a rallying cry for every Filipino to actively contribute to the betterment of their surroundings. It is an acknowledgment that the battle against pollution is not one that can be fought by a single entity but requires the concerted efforts of an entire nation.

In taking this bold step, the Marcos administration has demonstrated a commitment to building a cleaner and more sustainable future for the Philippines. As citizens, we must heed this call, not just on the designated day but as a continuous commitment to our environment and our collective well-being. The success of the Kalinisan sa Bagong Pilipinas program lies not only in the hands of the government but in the hands of every Filipino ready to make a difference.

***

Catch Gilbert Perdez’s “Barangay 882” radio show every Saturday from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Tune in via ALIW Channel 23, DWIZ AM Radio, the DWIZ 882 Facebook page, or DWIZ ON-DEMAND on YouTube. You can contact him via email at gil.playwright@gmail.com or through this number: 0991-3543676.