The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) proudly recognized the top-performing project barangays of the Metro Manila Flood Management Project (MMFMP) for their exemplary implementation of community-based solid waste management (SWM) under the project’s Results-based Incentive (RBI) scheme. The awarding ceremony took place at the Red Hotel in Cubao, Quezon City, highlighting the success of the barangays in managing solid wastes in their communities and contributing to the minimization of waste in waterways, which is critical for flood mitigation.
A total of 12 top-performing barangays from across the 85 project barangays of MMFMP in Metro Manila were selected based on agreed performance measures on community-based plans and practices in waste collection, segregation, and diversion. Under the RBI scheme, these barangays consequently underwent a performance validation process led by a technical working group composed of representatives from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency (PNVSCA) and the De La Salle University.
After the evaluation, three barangays emerged as the top performers. The best-performing barangays, Barangay 136 in Manila, Barangay San Isidro in Makati, and Barangay 94 in Manila, each received major incentives and a Solid Waste Management Investment amounting to PHP 750,000 for their outstanding efforts in improving waste collection, segregation, and disposal practices. Meanwhile, the remaining top barangays received minor incentives, including solid waste management (SWM) tools worth PHP 50,000 each.
MMDA Chairman Atty. Romando S. Artes emphasized the significance of the RBI scheme, stating, “Our Results-Based Incentives scheme is a very tangible initiative with clear results rooted in the power of collaboration. The success of these barangays proves that with the right support, community engagement, and incentives, we can make significant strides in reducing waste in Metro Manila’s waterways, ultimately preventing flooding and creating cleaner, more sustainable neighborhoods.”
ACTUAL QUOTE: MMDA General Manager Undersecretary Procopio G. Lipana emphasized that “Since the launch of the RBI in 2023, we have partnered with various agencies to assess and evaluate the performance of barangays in managing their waste. I send my heartfelt congratulations to the twelve barangays that have demonstrated exemplary dedication and leadership in solid [waste] management. Your efforts are making a real difference, not only in your communities but across Metro Manila.”
“What we are doing now is all anchored on our ten-year roadmap to zero waste. Because that is now the trend, we have to remove the word ‘garbage.’ But we have turned the waste into a valuable resource. Pursuant to Republic Act 9003, we have to segregate at source,” he added.
The RBI program is part of the larger Metro Manila Flood Management Project (MMFMP) under Component 2, which aims to minimize solid waste in waterways. The program incentivizes barangays to improve their SWM practices, thereby reducing the volume of waste that accumulates in waterways and pumping stations, which can inhibit their flood control functions.
The top-performing barangays demonstrated innovative strategies and exceptional dedication to solid waste management, setting benchmarks for other communities. Barangay 136 of Manila implemented a robust waste segregation program, achieving approximately 90% household participation through ordinances, seminars, and social media campaigns. Barangay San Isidro, Makati formalized a subsystem for inaccessible areas, increasing waste collection coverage to nearly 100% and diverting more biodegradable waste since 2021. Meanwhile, Barangay 94 of Manila established a Barangay Materials Recovery Facility near its estero to streamline waste management and recycling efforts, ensuring proper waste disposal and promoting tie-ups with local junk shops and NGOs.
These barangays not only improved their local environments but also inspired sustainable practices among their residents, contributing significantly to Metro Manila’s waste management goals.
As the top performers were recognized for their solid waste management initiatives that not only improved waste collection and segregation but also fostered a culture of sustainability among its residents, the RBI program’s pilot implementation will continue to be refined, with plans for replication in more barangays across Metro Manila. The MMDA hopes to inspire other local government units to adopt the same model, further expanding the reach of community-based solid waste management practices.
Dir. Josias E. Syquimsiam, Jr., Director IV of the Solid Waste Management Office, said “”As public servants, we don’t expect to be recognized for our service to the nation, as it is our sworn duty. However, MMDA chooses to give importance to these efforts. We understand the hardships and challenges you’ve endured in managing waste in your communities.”
“Today, the MMDA recognizes the steps you have taken to maintain order and cleanliness, not only in your respective barangays but for the entire Metro Manila. We hope this continues and that the initiatives you have chosen to establish serve as a model, enabling us to do what’s right for our shared environment. We are beyond grateful to be your partner in providing an ecological, systematic, comprehensive, and, most importantly, sustainable solid waste management program for the people of Metro Manila,” he continued.
The ceremony also included presentations from the winning barangays, showcasing their innovative SWM initiatives and plans, as well as sustained improvements in waste management practices. The event concluded with a commitment from the MMDA and partner barangays to continue working together in achieving a cleaner, flood-resilient Metro Manila.
For more information about MMDA’s Results-Based Incentives program and other initiatives under the Metro Manila Flood Management Project, visit the MMDA website or follow @MMDA on social media.
