MATERIALS RECOVERY FACILITY In celebration of the Philippine Environment Month, Aboitiz Construction Inc., through Aboitiz Foundation, turned over a materials recovery facility (MRF) on Wednesday (June 5, 2024) to Barangay Bagong Pook in Malvar, Batangas. This initiative reflects the shared commitment of the private sector and the local government to fostering environmental responsibility and promoting sustainable development. Contributed Photo
MALVAR, Batangas – A village in this town is expected to benefit from sustainable waste management and additional livelihood opportunities courtesy of an “ecocycle resource facility” funded by the private sector.
Aboitiz Foundation has turned over a solar-powered materials recovery facility (MRF) for Barangay Bagong Pook as part of efforts to encourage residents here to embrace recycling.
Ginggay Hontiveros-Malvar, president of Aboitiz Foundation, said on Monday that the facility’s construction reflects the Aboitiz Group’s commitment to fostering environmental responsibility and promoting sustainable development.
“As we move forward, let’s remember that this is just the beginning. By embracing recycling and proper waste disposal, each of us can make a significant impact on our environment and set an example for future generations,” she said.
She added the solar-powered facility was designed as a central point for waste management activities to play a pivotal role in facilitating waste collection, sorting, and recycling efforts in the community.
Hontiveros-Malvar said the MRF facility will assist the barangay in meeting the requirements of Republic Act 9003, otherwise known as the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000, which emphasizes the proper handling of solid waste.
For his part, Barangay Councilor Elmer Tasico, Bagong Purok’s environment committee chair, said the project is “very fitting” as many of the village’s residents earn their living by sifting through garbage in search for items with some value.
He said the MRF facility will help locals collect more usable discarded materials, allowing them to make more money and eventually, transcend their dependence on government dole-outs.
“Our partner garbage collectors in the community who are beneficiaries of the 4Ps [Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program] are committed to using the facility continuously. Proper segregation comes from the household, and we can see that the majority of waste is utilized,” he added.
Tasico said that aside from bolstering livelihood opportunities, the new MRF facility will get the community involved in environmental protection.
Meanwhile, Aboitiz Construction Inc. Project Director Kervy Datay is hopeful that the facility will advance sustainable development and environmental stewardship in the province.
“May this serve as inspiration for all of us to be more mindful and diligent in fulfilling our duties as stewards of our environment,” he said.
The facility’s launch coincides with the annual celebration of World Environment Day this week, the largest global platform for environmental public outreach led by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).In 1988, Proclamation No. 237 declared the month of June as Philippine Environment Month. PNA
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