On January 8, 2025, the Angeles City Government, under the leadership of Mayor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin Jr., resumed the Walang Plastikan – Plastik Palit Bigas Project in Barangay San Nicolas. This initiative is designed to encourage Angeleño households to practice proper waste segregation at home and to significantly reduce, if not completely eliminate, the use of plastic products in the community.
The program allows residents to exchange recyclable plastic waste for rice. One kilogram of recyclable plastics is traded for one kilogram of rice, providing an effective incentive for households to sort their waste responsibly while addressing the issue of food security. The city government’s initiative helps both the environment and the people, making it a dual-purpose program.
IC Calaguas, Chief Adviser to Mayor Lazatin, explained that the city will collect recyclable plastics from households participating in the exchange. By encouraging families to recycle, the program not only reduces plastic pollution but also aids in the management of waste materials within the city.
The plastics collected through this project will be repurposed and transformed into brick pavers. These pavers will be used for public infrastructure projects, turning waste into valuable resources for the city’s development and beautification efforts. This aspect of the project aligns with the city’s sustainability goals by ensuring that waste materials are utilized in meaningful ways.
Kiko Pangilinan, the Head of the Environmental Management System, supervised the plastic-to-rice exchange event in Barangay San Nicolas. Pangilinan underscored the significance of community participation, as the success of the program largely depends on residents’ commitment to proper waste segregation at the household level.
The Walang Plastikan initiative is part of a larger environmental campaign spearheaded by Mayor Lazatin. It highlights the city’s dedication to creating a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable environment for its residents while promoting responsible practices in waste management.
As the program continues to roll out in various barangays, it reflects the city government’s determination to reduce plastic waste and improve the quality of life for Angeleño families. Through the Walang Plastikan – Plastik Palit Bigas Project, the city is fostering a sense of responsibility and cooperation among residents, ensuring a positive impact on both the environment and the community.
Source: Angeles City Information Office
