Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (DMMMSU), through its Institute of Environmental Studies (IES), conducted a learning session on ecological solid waste management in the Municipality of Santo Tomas, La Union, on June 30, 2025.

The initiative forms part of the University’s flagship extension program, Professor in the Barangay: Sustainable Waste Management through Community-Based Engagements, in collaboration with the Local Government Unit of Santo Tomas. The activity coincided with the observance of Philippine Environment Month 2025, themed “Beat Plastic Pollution.”

Mr. Celso H. Jucutan, Extension Facilitator of DMMMSU-IES, led the technical discussions by highlighting key provisions of Republic Act No. 9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000, along with the Extended Producer Responsibility Act of 2022. He emphasized the crucial role of barangays in implementing localized waste segregation practices and reiterated the prohibition of open burning.

Reinforcing this call to action, Mr. Roy Arongat, Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Officer of Santo Tomas, underscored the importance of community involvement in achieving sustainable waste solutions. He introduced the Citation Ticket system, a local enforcement mechanism aimed at strengthening barangay-level implementation of environmental ordinances.

Representatives from 22 out of 24 barangays attended the session. The participants were encouraged to cascade the learnings in their respective communities, promote compliance with environmental laws, and advocate for intensified grassroots education and monitoring. (By Celso H. Jucutan)