The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region 3 reported that it had collected more than 6,100 kilograms of election-campaign waste during its cleanup drive dubbed “Operation Baklas,” after the May 12 midterm elections.
The DENR said the operation against election garbage involved its provincial and community environment offices across Central Luzon.
The agency collected posters, tarpaulins, and other election paraphernalia from public spaces.
The initiative was conducted in partnership with local government units, other government agencies, and volunteers, according to DENR.
The recovered materials were taken to the Materials Recovery Facilities (MRFs) for recycling.
In Aurora province, the DENR said that collected materials were turned into flaglets, eco-bags, and hollow blocks.
In Pampanga, local government units repurposed them into baskets, tents, and sacks for community gardens.
“This operation is a concrete example of our intensified campaign for proper waste management and environmental care,” said DENR-3 Regional Executive Director Ralph Pablo. “We are not only clearing campaign litter but also educating the public on the importance of proper waste disposal and recycling.”
The DENR-3 acknowledged the efforts of its PENRO and CENRO personnel, local government units, and the private sector which contributed to the region-wide cleanup.
“We thank all our partners and volunteers for making Operation Baklas a success. With collective action, we can keep our environment clean and sustainable,” the agency added.