Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (DMMMSU) affirmed its commitment to proper solid waste management through active engagement in the Regional Ecology Center (REC) of Region 1, chaired by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. 

Republic Act 9003 otherwise known as “The Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000” amended by Republic Act 11898 (Extended Producer Responsibility Act of 2022) prescribes the establishment of a REC in every Region which shall provide technical expertise, information, training, networking services and coordinate solid waste management mandates for the implementation of the law. 

The REC is a multi-sectoral, multidisciplinary pool of experts, including those from the academe, inventors, practicing professionals, business and industry, youth, women and other concerned sectors that passed the qualifications set by the National Solid Waste Management Commission (NSWMC). 

A Memorandum of Commitment (MoC) among various organizations was inked in 2024 in the City of San Fernando, La Union. The members, including DMMMSU, were convened on July 1, 2025, in Marand Resort, Bauang, La Union, for a meeting and signing of the MoC for other members. 

As a member, DMMMSU shall perform the following responsibilities:

1. Help implement various efforts through education and public information campaign activities on solid waste management;

2. Assist in developing information materials emphasizing effective solid waste management practices and circular economy principles; and 

3. Actively participate in programs geared towards the promotion of ecological solid waste management and to publicly endorse and patronize environmentally acceptable products and packaging materials. The University was represented by Dr. Priscilo P. Fontanilla, Jr., Vice-President for Planning and Development, and Mr. Celso Jucutan, Director for Environmental Concerns, Sustainability and Development. (By CHJ)