As part of the Iloilo City Beautification Program, there are currently plans to have trash cans installed along the Iloilo River Esplanade and Diversion Road in the city’s Mandurriao district as a means of discouraging the public from littering. City Agriculturist Romulo Pangantihon, who heads the program, said he plans on speaking with Iloilo City Mayor Jose Espinosa III regarding the matter.

“One reason why there are no trash bins at Esplanade and Diversion Road is because these are designated as environmental discipline zones,” he explained.

The city official explained the designation itself is intended to remind the public not to litter and to keep off the plants.

“One of the problems every morning is that there are plastics and barbecue sticks scattered on the ground,” Pangantihon added. “There was a time that one of our personnel was even pierced by [a] barbecue stick.”

According to a release from the city government, a similar initiative conducted at Iloilo City’s Sunburst Park has been effective.

Last year, following the reopening of popular tourist destination Boracay, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) announced a “zero tolerance policy” with regard to littering on the resort island.

According to DENR Undersecretary Benny Antiporda, “Under the Anti-Littering Law, littering is a criminal offense and violators could face a fine or render community service from eight to 16 hours.”/WDJ