The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) recently celebrated the achievements of top-performing barangays under the Metro Manila Flood Management Project (MMFMP) for their exceptional efforts in implementing community-based solid waste management (SWM). The awarding ceremony, held at the Red Hotel in Cubao, Quezon City, highlighted the barangays’ significant contributions to reducing waste in waterways—a critical factor in flood prevention.
Recognizing the Best in Solid Waste Management
From 85 participating project barangays, 12 top performers were selected based on established performance metrics in waste collection, segregation, and diversion. These barangays underwent a rigorous validation process conducted by a technical working group comprising representatives from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency (PNVSCA), and De La Salle University.
The top three barangays—Barangay 136 in Manila, Barangay San Isidro in Makati, and Barangay 94 in Manila—stood out for their innovative SWM practices. Each received a PHP 750,000 Solid Waste Management Investment as a reward for their efforts. Meanwhile, the remaining nine top barangays received SWM tools worth PHP 50,000 each as minor incentives.
Acknowledging Outstanding Efforts
MMDA Chairman Atty. Romando S. Artes emphasized the transformative potential of the Results-Based Incentive (RBI) scheme:
“Our Results-Based Incentives scheme is a tangible initiative with measurable outcomes rooted in collaboration. The success of these barangays demonstrates how proper support and community engagement can significantly reduce waste in Metro Manila’s waterways, preventing flooding and fostering cleaner, sustainable neighborhoods.”
MMDA General Manager Undersecretary Procopio G. Lipana praised the barangays’ leadership and dedication:
“Since the RBI’s launch in 2023, we have partnered with various agencies to assess and evaluate barangay performance in waste management. My heartfelt congratulations to the twelve barangays that have shown exemplary dedication. Your efforts are not just improving your communities but are making a real impact across Metro Manila.”
Lipana also highlighted the agency’s long-term goals:
“Our initiatives align with a ten-year roadmap to achieve zero waste. Through Republic Act 9003, we advocate waste segregation at the source, transforming waste into valuable resources while eliminating the concept of ‘garbage.’”
Transformative Waste Management Practices
The top-performing barangays implemented impactful strategies to improve solid waste management:
- Barangay 136, Manila introduced a robust waste segregation program, achieving 90% household participation through ordinances, seminars, and social media campaigns.
- Barangay San Isidro, Makati created a system to address waste collection in previously inaccessible areas, achieving near-total coverage and increasing biodegradable waste diversion.
- Barangay 94, Manila established a Barangay Materials Recovery Facility near its estero, streamlining recycling efforts and fostering partnerships with local junk shops and NGOs.
These initiatives have not only improved local waste management but have also inspired residents to adopt sustainable practices, advancing Metro Manila’s SWM goals.
Building a Sustainable Future
The RBI program, part of the MMFMP Component 2, incentivizes barangays to enhance SWM practices to reduce the waste clogging waterways and impeding flood control systems. The MMDA plans to refine and expand the program, encouraging more barangays to adopt community-based waste management models.
Dir. Josias E. Syquimsiam, Jr., Director IV of the Solid Waste Management Office, commended the barangays:
“The MMDA recognizes the efforts of barangays in maintaining cleanliness and order not just within their areas but across Metro Manila. These initiatives set an inspiring example for ecological and sustainable waste management.”
Commitment to a Cleaner Metro Manila
The awarding ceremony included presentations from the winning barangays, showcasing their innovative SWM initiatives and their sustained improvements in waste management practices. The event concluded with a pledge from the MMDA and partner barangays to continue working together toward a cleaner, flood-resilient Metro Manila.
Learn More
For updates on MMDA’s Results-Based Incentive program and other initiatives under the Metro Manila Flood Management Project, visit the MMDA website or follow @MMDA on social media.
