A call to action blossomed into a display of unity through a community cleanup in Barangay Banago, Bacolod City, on Friday, July 25.
The coastal barangay, frequently hard-hit by flooding during the rainy season, saw an impressive turnout from various sectors, a press release from the Bacolod City Communications Office (BCCO) said.
“This isn’t the ultimate solution, but it’s a crucial step,” Bacolod Mayor Greg Gasataya, who was at the site, said.
“We are improving the water flow, but until everyone takes responsibility for waste disposal, our drainage system will continue to suffer”, he said.
The BCCO said 10,955 kilograms of garbage and 15 cubic meters of silt were collected on Friday.
Barangay Banago Captain Arnel Baldo Benjamin identified Purok Riverside as a critical area, a collection point for waste from Barangays Bata and Mandalagan.
“Even light rain causes flooding here,” he explained.
“We’re thankful for this prioritization. Banago will serve as a model for other barangays”, Benjamin said.
Punong Barangay Jerry P. Tingson of Barangay Estefania stressed the need for environmental responsibility.
“We’re doing our part. This is our response to climate change and rising water levels,” he said.
Also at the cleanup activity were Councilors Homer Bais, Em Ang, and Celia Flor, along with barangay officials from Banago, Estefania, Vista Alegre, and Barangays 1, 23, Singcang-Airport, and Bata, a press release from the Bacolod City Communications said.
Gasataya confirmed that the Banago cleanup will continue as part of the city’s broader environmental responsibility and flood mitigation strategy.*