THE Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), through its Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), launched the "Trash-to-Cash Project" on Saturday, July 5, 2025, in Tumaga village, Zamboanga City.
The DSWD-Zamboanga Peninsula reported on Tuesday, July 8, that the community initiative began with a ceremonial turnover of trash bins. Captain Ansley Green, leading the U.S. Marine Special Operations Company, presented the bins to the Barangay Local Government Unit (BLGU) of Tumaga and local 4Ps beneficiaries.
The DSWD-Zamboanga Peninsula stated that the "Trash-to-Cash Project" is a key intervention identified during the Social Investment Forum (SIF) in 2023. The project aims to address two critical issues for 4Ps beneficiaries in the area: waste management, flood mitigation, and financial augmentation leading to sustainable livelihood.
Improper waste disposal has significantly contributed to flooding in the community, particularly during the rainy season. The project seeks to improve solid waste management practices by providing accessible trash bins for segregated waste collection throughout Tumaga village.
Collected recyclable materials will be sold to a partner recycler through SM’s waste management network. Proceeds from these sales will form seed capital for a future community-based livelihood initiative, managed by local 4Ps parent groups.
Jacqueline Lim, chairperson of Tumaga village and the 4Ps’ District Advisory Committee, encouraged her constituents, especially 4Ps beneficiaries, to utilize the bins effectively and ensure they serve their intended purpose. Lim also committed to providing labels and ensuring the safekeeping of the bins in their respective areas after installation.
The DSWD-Zamboanga Peninsula expressed sincere gratitude to the U.S. Marine Special Operations Company for their valuable assistance and continued commitment to uplifting the lives of vulnerable families in the Philippines.
“This partnership goes beyond waste management—it’s about community resilience, sustainability, and dignity for our 4Ps families,” Evelyn Dalaguit, DSWD representative, said during the project launch.
The "Trash-to-Cash Project" is the initial project under SIF. The DSWD envisions replicating it in other villages across Zamboanga City as part of a broader effort to integrate environmental and economic sustainability into the 4Ps program. (SunStar Zamboanga)