Baricuatro calls on multi-sector partnerships, solutions to Cebu’s waste problem

CEBU CITY – Cebu governor Pamela Baricuatro called on a multi-sector solution to the mounting waste problem of the Province that take its toll on its waste management efforts, acknowledging its inability to solve the problem alone.

Baricuatro issued this call at the launch of the “Understanding Choices Series” a new initiative that aims to tackle pressing issues through collaboration and partnerships with the private sector, civil society and the academe, on March 19 at the Marco Plaza Hotel, with the first leg of the series called “Cebu’s Waste Dilemma and Potential Solution-Interventions.”

“We need you. The government cannot do this alone and we look forward to collaboration, partnerships, and engagement that will result from this event,” Provincial Administrator Atty. Ace Durano appealed to the attendees that included Gov. Pamela Baricuatro, Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival, members of the Provincial Board and mayors from various towns and cities of the province.

Durano echoed the governor’s policy of adopting a multi-sectoral approach to governance in addressing Cebu’s key issues, particularly solid waste management, which requires expertise and participation beyond the halls of the Capitol.

The “Understanding Choices Series” with its first leg on waste management and solutions, aims to assess ongoing initiatives, identify gaps, and craft evidence-based solutions to the province’s worsening garbage problem, Durano said.

Elizar Sabinay Jr. of the Provincial Planning and Development Office (PPDO) bared that similar sessions or summits will be held in the coming months, including Climate Action and Flood-Resilient Cebu in April, People in Governance in May, and the Cebu Education Summit in June.

“This is Cebu moving forward.  It will be science-based; it will be evidence-based; it will be based on consultations, participations, and collaborations not just with local government units but also with multi-stakeholders,” Sabinay said.

Part of the first leg summit was an exhibit featuring local and international solid waste solution providers, waste management technologies and best practices from around the world. Baricuatro led the ribbon cutting ceremony with all the summit participants composed of local government officials, national line agencies, solid waste management advocates, and various solution providers.

“Understanding Choices Series: Cebu’s Waste Dilemma and Potential Solution-Interventions,” is expected to guide the provincial government’s policy direction and programs in addressing cross-sectoral challenges, including climate resilience, governance, and education. (Photos: Capitol PIO)