Gov't agencies forge partnership for litter-free elections

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the National Solid Waste Management Commission (NSWMC) launched today the “Basura Free Elections 2013” at the DENR Social Hall in Quezon City. 

The launch also saw the signing of the Joint Memorandum Circular of the three government agencies-- namely the DENR, the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), and the Commission on Elections (Comelec)-- that will lead in the implementation of the said campaign. 

The Basura Free Elections 2013 is in preparation for the coming midterm election when the volume of solid waste is expected to increase due to the proliferation of campaign materials such as posters, flyers, and other campaign paraphernalia. 

In the past elections, campaign periods have been particularly problematic because of the improper management of trash. Campaign materials were also posted anywhere, even on trees. 

With the joint memorandum, the national government, local government units, the youth sector, and election candidates will be enjoined to work together to ensure that the coming elections will be environment-friendly—adhering to solid waste management practices. 

The project seeks to achieve the following objectives: effective waste reduction through segregation and disposal; sensible use of resources by election candidates; and proper management of campaign materials by political candidates and parties. 

This campaign will also ensure that political parties and candidates will adhere to RA 3571 which prohibits the cutting, destroying or injuring of trees, flowering plants and shrubs or plants of scenic value along public roads, in plazas, parks, school premises or in any other public ground. 

The posting of election materials in plants/trees will be prohibited during the campaign period. 

Comelec Commissioner Lucenito Tagle said that even during elections, Filipinos should be more conscious of their environment; thus, observing cleanliness and proper waste disposal is an imperative. 

To strengthen their commitment and participation, the lead agencies together with other partners such as the MMDA, NSWMC, and PIA,as well as representatives from political parties, party lists, candidates, Sangguniang Kabataan and youth leaders, as well as members of civil society signed the manifesto of commitment. 

The theme for the Basura-Free Elections 2013 campaign is “Kalat Ko, Sisinupin Ko,” and it commits to properly manage solid waste during the election period from January 13 to June 12.