ABSTRACT
This study was conducted to examine the stakeholders' solid waste management practices in the 2nd Congressional District of Iloilo using in-depth interviews and a descriptive qualitative design. Using purposive sampling, technique, the study gathered data from thirty stakeholders, comprising ten school heads, ten teachers, and ten parents. Findings showed stakeholders emphasized the importance of proper waste collection, 3Rs observance, environmental protection, and waste reduction as their views on solid waste management. They also participated in the program through activities like waste segregation, clean-up drives, and environmental awareness promotion. However, stakeholders faced challenges in the implementation of the program including inadequate funding, lack of cooperation, and insufficient knowledge on proper waste disposal. Given the results, the study proposed an action plan to help improve the implementation of the solid waste management program.
Keywords: stakeholders’ practices, Solid Waste Management
INTRODUCTION
The Philippines is grappling with a significant solid waste management (SWM) challenge, which poses substantial environmental, social, and economic risks. Rapid urbanization, inadequate urban planning, and insufficient resources have led to excessive waste generation, with 25% of the country's solid waste produced in Manila's metropolitan area alone (Abubakar et al., 2022).
The Philippines confronts a major problem in handling its urban waste, with a considerable amount posing ecological hazards. According to recent data, the country's annual waste generation is estimated to be in the tens of millions of tons, with nearly a third of this waste not disposed of in an environmentally sustainable way (World Bank, 2024).
To solve this dilemma, the Philippine government has strengthened the implementation of Republic Act (RA) 9003, also known as the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000. This legislation aims to promote ecological solid waste management practices, including segregation, composting, and recycling, to minimize waste. In response, the Department of Education has been mandated to integrate Ecological Solid Waste Management (ESWM) into school systems nationwide, fostering environmentally responsible practices and a culture of sustainability.
However, despite government efforts, schools continue to face significant challenges in implementing effective SWM practices due to a lack of cooperation and discipline. The absence of active participation from students, parents, and the community has rendered existing waste management initiatives ineffective. Research suggests that efficient SWM requires a grassroots approach, engaging individuals, households, stakeholders, and communities in waste management practices (Ikhuoso, 2018).
This study aimed to address the SWM challenge in schools by promoting awareness, knowledge, skills, and attitudes toward solid waste management among students. By developing and implementing educational programs, schools can establish a foundation for formulating effective action plans on SWM.
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