Politics · Philippines Bureau
Palace directs local governments to strengthen waste management efforts
Malacañang has called on local government units to play a more active role in flood mitigation through improved garbage disposal practices. The administration is simultaneously examining how to allocate portions of the National Tax Allotment toward solid waste management initiatives.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — The Palace has directed local government units across the country to strengthen their waste management operations as part of broader efforts to reduce flooding during the monsoon season.
Executive Secretary Ralph Recto issued the call in a statement released Sunday, emphasizing that LGUs must take greater responsibility for keeping trash off city streets and waterways. Poor waste disposal practices have long been cited as a contributing factor to severe flooding in urban and rural areas, as accumulated garbage clogs drainage systems and waterways.
Beyond the directive, Malacañang indicated it is studying mechanisms to reallocate a portion of the National Tax Allotment—funds distributed annually to local government units—specifically for solid waste management projects. The move would provide LGUs with dedicated resources to upgrade their garbage collection, segregation, and disposal infrastructure.
The initiative comes as the Philippines prepares for the peak of its rainy season, when flooding poses significant risks to communities nationwide. Officials have stressed that improving waste management at the local level is critical to reducing flood severity and protecting public health.