Pototan, Iloilo Province – The Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO) of Pototan launched its first-ever International Mother Earth Day celebration with a community-led clean up drive and waste audit at Barangay P Ledesma Ward.
Adopting the theme, “Basura Puluton, Pototan Amligan Naton,” more than 50 barangay officials and residents swept through the major streets in the Poblacion to collect various dry wastes. Under the guidance of Iloilo Provincial Government's Environment and Natural Resources Office (PGENRO), an initial audit showed that 155 kilogram of wastes were collected, predominantly composed of high-potential recyclable plastic bottles. These collected materials will be sorted for repurposing.
The event featured an in-depth session on circular economy principles and concepts facilitated by the Ph Plastics Circularity Project implemented by UNDP Philippines with support from The Coca-Cola Foundation. Interactive discussions highlighted practical “Wala Usik” lifestyles that households can adopt immediately.
Adding profound meaning to the celebration, Miss Iloilo Heartfelt Queen 2026 Angel Anne Teruel led participants in an inspiring earth pledge, fostering a commitment to adopting sustainable lifestyles starting within families. Ms. Teruel, who represents Pototan in the upcoming Ms Earth 2026 pageant, expressed gratitude to the organizers for an event that deeply resonates with her environmental advocacy.
Building on the success of Pototan’s inaugural Earth Day celebration, MENRO head Kent Peñaflorida plans to institutionalize the event as an annual program and expand its scope to involve more barangays and diverse sectors.
Text by MENRO Pototan
📷: UNDP Philippines