Lanao del Sur, Philippines – The Provincial Solid Waste Management Board (PSWMB), chaired by Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer Forester Pili Papandayan, convened today at the Provincial Capitol’s Social Hall. The meeting, attended by environmental and government officials, focused on establishing a sanitary landfill and reviewing the province’s 10-year solid waste management (SWM) plan.
MENRE-BARMM Mines and Geoscience Services Chief Geologist Lucman presented essential legal frameworks governing landfill establishment, including DENR Administrative Orders 2000-28, 2005-08, and 2001-34, alongside thematic maps specific to Lanao del Sur. The laws provide guidelines on charges, operational standards, design considerations, and criteria for evaluating proposed sanitary landfill sites.
A notable aspect of the presentation was the analysis of thematic hazard maps, provided by Senior Geologist Japhet Taula, that highlighted flood and landslide susceptibility, faultlines, and areas prone to tsunamis, lahar, and lava flow in Lanao del Sur. These maps, last updated in 2015, are essential for determining suitable landfill locations that minimize environmental and public health risks.
Adding to the discussion, MENRE-BARMM Environment Management Services representative Abdul Mauten Acmad emphasized the importance of Republic Act 9003, also known as the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act. Acmad outlined the mandatory requirements for local government units (LGUs) to comply with RA 9003, including institutional mechanisms for waste management, prohibited acts, penalties, and funding provisions.
Acmad also underscored MENRE’s commitment to supporting LGUs through technical guidance, capacity-building initiatives, and enforcement of RA 9003. The board emphasized the need for effective waste reduction policies and visitorial oversight to ensure LGUs meet the minimum standards set by the law.
This meeting marks a critical step in advancing Lanao del Sur’s SWM plan and aligns with the national objective to improve waste management infrastructure, reduce environmental hazards, and promote sustainable practices across the province.
