On February 10, 2025, the Angeles City Government, led by Mayor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin Jr., rolled out another successful edition of the Walang Plastikan – Plastik Palit Bigas Project in Barangay Sta. Trinidad. This program aims to promote waste segregation among Angeleño households while reducing the use of plastics and encouraging sustainable practices in the community.
The “Walang Plastikan – Plastik Palit Bigas” initiative works by allowing residents to exchange recyclable plastics for rice. According to the program, for every kilo of recyclable plastic collected, residents receive one kilo of rice. This exchange offers a direct incentive for Angeleños to practice responsible waste management and environmental conservation.
Mayor Lazatin’s Chief Adviser, IC Calaguas, emphasized that the city government’s commitment to environmental protection and community welfare remains strong. The initiative not only helps reduce plastic waste but also provides families with an essential food staple in exchange for their participation in the program.
The collected plastics will be processed and repurposed into brick pavers, contributing to both the city’s environmental sustainability goals and infrastructure development. This innovative approach helps in repurposing waste materials to serve a practical purpose, further reducing the city’s carbon footprint.
Environmental Management System Head Kiko Pangilinan was present to oversee the plastic-to-rice exchange program in Barangay Sta. Trinidad. His involvement ensures the smooth implementation of the initiative, which serves as a model for other communities to adopt similar environmental practices.
The “Walang Plastikan – Plastik Palit Bigas” project is not only an environmental effort but also a poverty alleviation initiative. By providing rice, a vital resource for many families, the program helps ease some of the financial burden while promoting ecological responsibility at the same time.
In conclusion, the success of this ongoing project in Barangay Sta. Trinidad highlights the importance of community involvement in both environmental and social initiatives. Mayor Lazatin assured that this program will continue in other barangays, with the goal of further reducing plastic waste and enhancing the quality of life for Angeleño households.
Source: Angeles City Information Office
