Mini-gardens set up in ‘garbage hotspots’

CEBU, Philippines —  As part of Cebu City government’s campaign against indiscriminate throwing of garbage, it has set up mini-gardens in the so-called “garbage hotpot” barangays of the city.

In doing this, the Cebu City Environmental Sanitation and Enforcement Team (CESET) hopes to encourage the public to appreciate clean environment and discourage them from irresponsibly disposing of their wastes.

In photos posted by the city’s Public Information Office, ornamental plants grown on recycled tires loaded with soil could be seen in these mini-gardens.

But CESET head Grace Luardo said that more than just putting up these gardens, what is important is the attitude of the people towards waste.

Thus, she urged residents not to dump garbage anywhere.

She also urged the public to strictly follow the guidelines on the collection of garbage, particularly on the schedule of arrival of garbage trucks tasked to collect such wastes.

The CESET chief believes that broad cooperation of the people is the main instrument for maintaining the cleanliness of the city.

Clean-up storm

Meanwhile, Luardo revealed that the city’s wide -ranging program called the Garbage Clean-Up Storm continues.

Under this program, CESET staff continue to work to clean up areas of the city even late at night.

Joining CESET personnel in cleaning the streets are various City Hall department workers such as those from Prevention, Restoration, Order, Beautification, and Enhancement (Probe), Department of Public Services (DPS), Cebu City Transportation Office (CCTO), Cebu City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CCENRO), among others. 

Right now, they are still removing campaign materials of the candidates in the last elections.

Luardo said that for those caught throwing their wastes indiscriminately, a fine of P1,000 will be imposed.

CESET also revealed that they are also active in conducting clean-up drives.

In fact, various clean-up activities were conducted in some parts of the city yesterday by the City Hall personnel. — JMD (FREEMAN)