Leonardo Micua
DAGUPAN CITY—The Sangguniang Panlungsod approved a draft resolution urging the Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM) of the Department of Agriculture to offer technical support and provide equipment needed for setting up Composting Facilities for Biodegradable Wastes in Dagupan’s 31 barangays.
Jointly proposed by Councilors Jeslito Seen and Michael Fernandez, the resolution supports urban gardening, a strategy adopted by the Dagupan City government to enhance food security, foster community participation, promote environmental sustainability, and build climate resilience.
Additionally, under Republic Act No. 9003, known as the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000, the City is committed to waste reduction, segregation, and composting at the barangay level.
Since biodegradable wastes make up a significant portion of household, market, and community trash, these can be converted into organic compost via Composting Facilities for Biodegradable Wastes (CFBWs), the resolution notes.
The BSWM is expected to provide technical expertise, capacity building, and support for composting, waste improvement, and organic waste recycling.
Both Councilors Seen and Fernandez are optimistic that establishing CFBWs in 31 barangays will strengthen Dagupan’s integrated urban gardening and waste management strategies.
The resolution authorizes Mayor Belen Fernandez or her authorized representative to coordinate with BSWM regarding program requirements, technical standards, and implementation plans. It also directs the City Agriculture Office and barangay officials to support the proper setup, operation, and use of CFBWs, especially for urban gardening and composting.