Bohol — The Bohol Provincial Government has officially expressed its support for a proposed sanitary landfill project in the town of Ubay, signaling a significant step forward in the province's efforts to modernize its solid waste management systems. During a recent meeting at the Capitol, Governor Erico Aris Aumentado, along with officials from the Bohol Provincial Environment Management Office (BPEMO), met with a Ubay delegation led by Vice Mayor Kim Fuentes to deliberate on the project’s planning and regulatory requirements. The initiative aligns with the province's Strategic Change Roadmap, which prioritizes sustainable infrastructure and environmental protection across the Bohol Island UNESCO Global Geopark.
Prioritizing Community Welfare and Consultation
While the provincial government views the project as a vital economic and environmental opportunity, Governor Aumentado has underscored the necessity of transparency and public participation. He specifically urged local officials to ensure that nearby residents are thoroughly included in the public consultation process. This approach is designed to address community concerns regarding safety and well-being, ensuring that the voice of the people remains central to the project's development. By fostering this dialogue, the province aims to build a sustainable facility that balances operational needs with the protection of local ecosystems and resident interests.
Clustered Waste Management for Greater Efficiency
During the discussions, officials explored the potential for a "clustered" waste management approach, which would allow the proposed landfill to serve not just Ubay, but neighboring municipalities as well. The feasibility of this expansion will depend on the site's carrying capacity and the long-term operational needs of the region. Atty. Jeffrey Escaso of the BPEMO noted that the project has already received key approvals from the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA). To advance the development, the Governor has advised the Ubay Sangguniang Bayan to pass the necessary resolutions and facilitate the issuance of a Special Land Use Permit (SLUP) to designate the area as an industrial zone.
A Commitment to Sustainable Infrastructure
This project represents a proactive effort by Bohol to address solid waste management challenges before they escalate, providing a stark contrast to the waste crises seen in other urban centers. As the project remains in the early stages of planning and permitting, the provincial government is committed to ensuring that all safety and environmental safeguards are strictly observed. By integrating modern waste disposal infrastructure into the province's broader environmental goals, Bohol continues to position itself as a model for resilient and well-managed development in the Philippines. The focus remains on creating a facility that not only generates revenue for Ubay but also sets a new standard for hygiene and sustainability in rural waste management.
