The Angeles City Government, under the leadership of Mayor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin Jr., has once again launched the Walang Plastikan – Plastik Palit Bigas Project, this time in Barangay Claro M. Recto, on February 11, 2025. The program aims to promote waste segregation at the household level, while encouraging the reduction and eventual elimination of plastic usage among residents.
The initiative allows Angeleño households to exchange recyclable plastics for rice. For every kilogram of recyclable plastics collected, residents will receive one kilogram of rice. This simple yet effective exchange encourages local families to participate in reducing waste and promoting environmental responsibility.
According to Mayor Lazatin’s Chief Adviser, IC Calaguas, the city government continues to support this program as a means to address both waste management challenges and food security issues. By collecting plastics, the city not only reduces waste but also provides an essential food source for families who may benefit from this form of assistance.
The plastics collected through the program will be processed and transformed into brick pavers, further contributing to the city’s environmental sustainability goals. The project serves a dual purpose—promoting waste management practices while also contributing to infrastructure development through the reuse of materials.
Environmental Management System Head Kiko Pangilinan was on hand to oversee the plastic-to-rice exchange in Barangay Claro M. Recto, ensuring that the distribution process was efficient and well-managed. His leadership in the project highlights the importance of coordination and supervision in ensuring its success.
The Walang Plastikan initiative is not just an environmental program; it is also a poverty alleviation effort. It provides practical support to residents by offering rice in exchange for their recyclable plastics, thus contributing to the welfare of both the environment and the community.
As the program continues to roll out across the city, Mayor Lazatin expressed his commitment to expanding these initiatives to other barangays. He reiterated that this is just one of many efforts to build a more sustainable and inclusive Angeles City, where residents are encouraged to care for both their environment and their community.
Source: Angeles City Information Office
