Pascual urges shift to MRFs, segregation to reduce landfill dependence

Councilor Antuy Pascual emphasized the importance of strengthening waste segregation and establishing Materials Recovery Facilities (MRFs) in barangays as a faster and more sustainable solution to the garbage problems of the city.

Pascual said that while proposals to identify new landfill areas are welcome, the process could take at least one to two years to complete, making it an impractical short-term response to the current crisis at the Pagalungan landfill.

“If we convert part of our budget to MRFs and support barangays to segregate their waste, we can reduce by 30 to 40 percent the garbage going to Pagalungan,” Pascual said during the session.

He added that enhancing segregation and MRF operations would not only help extend the landfill’s lifespan but also generate livelihood opportunities for residents who can benefit from recycling initiatives.

Vice Mayor Jocelyn “Bebot” Rodriguez supported the idea of Pascual, citing her experience in operating a bioreactor from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) that converts biodegradable waste into fertilizer.

Pascual’s remarks was a response to points made by Councilors Eric Salcedo and Marlo Tabac, who both proposed for long-term sustainability through proper segregation and waste reduction in the barangay level. (FDC/SP)