DILG, MMDA lead KALINISAN program in Malabon
THE Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) with the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) yesterday led the “Kalinga At Inisyatiba Para Sa Malinis Na Bayan” (KALINISAN) program in Malabon City, following the impact of typhoon Carina and Habagat recently.
DILG Secretary Benhur Abalos said the program, which focuses on cleanup operations, aims to provide a healthy and safe environment and encourage community participation anchored on the spirit of Bayanihan.
“Garbage is a big contributor to flooding. The trash we throw away comes back to us. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., through this program, would like to educate the public about proper waste disposal, particularly segregation,” said Abalos during a simple ceremony at the Tinajeros barangay hall.
He also encouraged the communities to work with the government to preserve and clean up the environment through discipline and having the right attitude in disposing of garbage properly.
“The program’s objective is to clean the surroundings and instill a mindset in everyone. I hope having a clean environment will be our goal,” said Abalos, citing that the conduct of cleanup operations must be immediate to prevent dengue and other water-borne diseases.
For his part, MMDA Acting Chairman Atty. Don Artes said the reconstruction of the damaged Malabon-Navotas River flood control gate is a priority of the national government and concerned agencies are monitoring the situation and taking appropriate actions.
“The repair of the navigational gate is complicated, so we have to be very careful. In coordination with the DPWH, we are working on the repairs based on the agreed timeline. Rest assured we will hasten the repair,” said Artes.
According to Artes, cleanup operations after the onslaught of typhoon Carina and Habagat are also being conducted simultaneously in other parts of Metro Manila. “From July 24 to July 31, we have hauled 870 tons of garbage and counting,” he said.
Malabon City Mayor Jeannie Sandoval, for her part, extended her gratitude to the DILG and MMDA for bringing the services of the KALINISAN for the benefit of her constituents, and to the participants who contributed time and effort to help the local government ensure a clean, safe, and healthy environment for the residents.
