The Bacolod Environment and Natural Resources Office (BENRO) unveiled its latest initiative, the Tindahan Extra Mile Program, to boost environmental sustainability.
A Memorandum of Understanding for the implementation of the Tindahan Extra Mile was signed at the Bacolod City Government Center on Monday, March 4.
The transformative program, developed in collaboration with Basic Environment Systems and Technology Inc. (BEST) and Coca-Cola Philippines, aims to revolutionize waste management practices in Bacolod City, a press release said.
The Tindahan Extra Mile Program sets out to empower micro-retailers as frontline environmental advocates. Through strategic partnerships, the program leverages the extensive network of more than 500 sari-sari stores and carenderias, transforming them into vital collection points for recyclable materials.
“We are excited to launch the Tindahan Extra Mile program in Bacolod City, furthering our global commitment to plastic recycling and supporting partner micro-retailers,” Pablo Noriega, Senior Director for Franchise Operations at Coca-Cola Philippines, said.
“Through an extensive network of collection points within sari-sari stores and carinderias, Bacolod residents can actively participate in PET bottle recycling, while helping their favorite local micro-retail stores boost their income”, he said.
“We have received testimonials from partner micro-retailers in Metro Manila regarding the impact of the TEM program on their community and livelihood. We are optimistic that these benefits will also be experienced by our new partners here in Bacolod City. We hope to witness the program fostering cleaner surroundings and inspiring positive behavioral change regarding plastic recycling,” Noriega added.
Bacolod Mayor Alfredo Alfredo Benitez expressed his full support for the program, stating, “the Tindahan Extra Mile Program is a testament to our commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. By mobilizing our local entrepreneurs and fostering community engagement, we are taking significant strides towards a greener and more sustainable Bacolod.”
The program’s core objective is to promote waste segregation at its source, making recycling more accessible and convenient for households and consumers. By incentivizing participation and providing necessary support and resources, the initiative not only addresses waste management challenges but also stimulates economic opportunities within the community.
“As we launch the Tindahan Extra Mile Program, we are not merely initiating a program; we are igniting a movement,” Benitez said.
“Together with BENRO, BEST, Coca-Cola Philippines, and our dedicated micro-retailers, we have the power to effect real change and preserve our environment for future generations,” he added.
The collaborative effort between BENRO, BEST, and Coca-Cola Philippines underscores the importance of public-private partnerships in driving sustainable development initiatives. Together, they are paving the way for innovative solutions to environmental challenges and setting a benchmark for cities worldwide, the press release said.*