Angeles City Mayor Presents Innovative Walang Plastikan Project at Walang Gutom Awards
Angeles City Mayor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin Jr. presented the impactful and innovative “Walang Plastikan: Plastic Palit Bigas Project” during the final panel presentation and interview for the Walang Gutom Awards on June 25, 2024, at the DSWD Batasan Complex in Quezon City. This initiative, which converts plastic waste into rice for impoverished families, has been recognized for its dual impact on hunger and environmental sustainability.
During his presentation, Mayor Lazatin highlighted the program’s alignment with Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 2: Zero Hunger and SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production. He emphasized that “Walang Plastikan” addresses both food insecurity and plastic waste management, demonstrating a holistic approach to community welfare. “Walang magugutom. Walang kalam ang tiyan. No Angeleño goes to bed hungry,” Lazatin stated passionately.
The success of the program is evident in its reach and impact. Mayor Lazatin reported that the “Walang Plastikan” initiative has benefited 3,356 families, representing 87% of the 3,858 Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) beneficiaries in Angeles City. This substantial participation rate underscores the program’s effectiveness and acceptance within the community.
Furthermore, the initiative has contributed to a significant reduction in malnutrition among children. The number of malnourished kids in Angeles City decreased from 1,500 in 2021 to 617 in 2022, with a further drop to 563 in 2023. These figures highlight the program’s role in improving children’s health and well-being by ensuring they receive adequate nutrition.
Joining Mayor Lazatin for the final presentation were key officials from Angeles City, including City Social Welfare and Development Officer Edna Duaso, City Planning and Development Officer Engr. Nilda Quito, Environmental Management System Head Francis Pangilinan, and City Nutrition Officer Francis De Guzman. Their presence underscored the collaborative effort behind the program’s success and the city’s commitment to sustainable development.
The Walang Gutom Awards ceremony is scheduled , June 26, at Malacañang Palace, where President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will recognize the Top 10 finalists from the 17 national contenders. The anticipation is high, with Angeles City’s innovative approach standing out as a strong candidate for national recognition.
Mayor Lazatin’s presentation and the positive outcomes of the “Walang Plastikan” project reflect the city’s dedication to addressing hunger and promoting sustainable practices. As the city awaits the results of the awards, the program’s success continues to inspire other communities to adopt similar initiatives, proving that innovative solutions can effectively tackle complex social issues.
Photo by: Angeles City Information Office