Las Piñas City Lone District Representative Mark Anthony Santos has urged local government units across Metro Manila to establish a single, standardized anti-littering policy to streamline waste management rules across the region.
The proposal follows recent heavy southwest monsoon rains that aggravated garbage accumulation throughout the metropolis, particularly along the river border connecting Pasay City and Parañaque City.
Santos highlighted that the varied regulations enforced by Metro Manila’s 16 cities and lone municipality create confusion for residents and commuters navigating the capital.
“Metro Manila is one interconnected community. Our policies against littering should also be consistent. There should be no safe haven for people who recklessly throw their garbage on streets, sidewalks, waterways and other public spaces,” saad ni Santos.
To fix the fragmented enforcement, the lawmaker recommended that LGUs implement identical provisions governing proper disposal, standardized fines, monetary penalties, and mandatory community service for violators.
Santos underscored that regulatory measures must be accompanied by proactive solutions, including expanded public awareness drives, strategic installation of trash receptacles in high-density areas, and active surveillance of frequent illegal dumping sites.
“Penalties alone will not solve the problem. We need discipline, consistent enforcement, proper waste management facilities and public education. Our goal is a cleaner, safer and more responsible Metro Manila,” saad ng mambabatas.
In addition to local policy alignment, Santos called on municipal executives to rigorously execute Republic Act No. 9003, also known as the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act.
He emphasized that harmonized cross-border policies are critical because environmental pollution and drainage systems freely span administrative boundaries across the region.