The environment is greatly affected by improper management of our everyday wastes.

And with this, our way of living and most especially our health greatly suffer in return. In the
Philippines, an estimate of 35,580 tons of garbage is generated every day. For decades, The
Philippines has faced a big challenge in managing solid waste problems. Only 40-85% of the
waste generated is collected nationwide, implying that 15-60% is improperly disposed of or
littered. Hence, the uncollected garbage is unfortunately, burned or dumped anywhere onto open
areas, adding to the now polluted air shed and water body, and global warming in the country.
The government has implemented programs to combat this problem. From the household
level, starting with the introduction of 3Rs (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) to Ecological Solid Waste
Management Programs which focuses more on the systematic management of activities which
includes the provision for segregation at source, transportation of segregated wastes, storage,
processing, treatment and disposal of solid waste and all other waste management activities
which aims to do not harm the environment.
The aim of this program is to ensure protection of public health and the environment
through a systematic, comprehensive, and ecological waste management. Policies for this
program includes: setting of guidelines and target for waste avoidance and volume reduction
through composting, recycling, re-using, recovery, and others; encourage cooperation and self-
regulation among waste generators through the application of cost-effective way to protect and
improve the environment.
For Barangay Boniao, Mahayag, Zamboanga del Sur, data from MPDO show that all 7 of
the puroks in the barangay have an MRF (Material Recovery Facility) wherein the residents
practice segregation of biodegradable and non-biodegradable wastes and the LGU eventually
collects once a month. Although this information seems to portray a good image of waste
management in the barangay, during ocular survey, apparently the only serviceable MRF present
is the one located at the barangay hall and not all residents utilize it. Most residents are seen
practicing burning to dispose their wastes. Another concern is the waste collection schedule.
Once a month collection is a long interval. Data also show that 250 out of 333 households in the
barangay still practice burning and only 150 households practice composting.

There are some things we can do to make solid waste management better in the
Philippines. Implementing waste management programs effectively. Government should provide
more training and technical support to LGUs. Waste management rules should be monitored and
enforced more strictly to make sure that LGUs follow them. Lastly, communities should be
informed about the benefits of managing waste properly through public awareness campaigns
promoting improved methods of waste reduction, collection, separation, and recovery.
Elaboration of the law is important for the citizens to be aware of their responsibilities. Policies
shall be recommended to eliminate barriers to waste reduction programs. Enforcement powers
should be exercised for strict compliance of the people.
As doctors, we have an important role in pushing for better waste management practices. We can
inform people about the health dangers of managing waste badly and urge them to dispose of
their waste properly. We can also work with local officials private sectors, and other partners to
run effective waste management programs and policies that put public health first.

In conclusion, solid waste management is a crucial issue that affects both the
environment and public health in the Philippines. It requires collective action from various
stakeholders, including local governments, the national government, the private sector, civil
society, and individuals. By improving solid waste management practices, we can protect our
environment, our health, and our future

Resources: https://doh.gov.ph/sites/default/files/policies_and_laws/RA09003.pdf
https://doh.gov.ph/health-programs/sanitation-program/types-of-service