QUEZON CITY — To fully operationalize the management of solid waste in the Bangsamoro region, the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources, and Energy (MENRE) – BARMM discussed with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) National the future transition and turnover of power and authority over BARMM SWM matters from National Solid Waste Management Commission to the Bangsamoro Government.

Through Environment Management Services (EMS) Director Jalani M. Pamlian, the MENRE met with DENR Undersecretary for Solid Waste Management, Usec Benny Antiporda last 6 October 2021 at DENR Central Office in Quezon City.

Usec Antiporda said that DENR National is committed to assist and provide technical assistance to the newly established Sub-Committee on Regional Solid Waste Management (RSWM) in BARMM. This training will be facilitated by the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) with the help of EMB National Director Engr. William P. Cuñado. The National Office sets its eyes on providing 6-12 months of technical assistance to MENRE before the complete turnover.

Director Pamlian also paid a courtesy call to DENR Undersecretary for Mining and Muslim Affairs, Usec Jim Sampulna, to deliberate the upcoming handing over of the SWM project in Marawi City. In addition, Pamlian talked with EMB Assistant Director Engr. VIisminda Osorio, EMB-SWM Chief Maria Cristina Delia Valdez, EMB-Laboratory Chief Maria Fatima Anneglo Molina to finalize the technical training to be provided and the Memorandum of Agreement that will be crafted for the laboratory assistance between EMB Offices of DENR Region 9, 10, and 12, and the EMS-MENRE.

Last September 3, the Bangsamoro Economic and Development Council approved the creation of the Sub-Com on RSWM under the Regional Land Use Committee. The Sub-Com, which the MENRE chairs, will strengthen the implementation of the Republic Act 9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000.

Aside from being a policy-making body on solid waste management in the Bangsamoro region, the primary roles of the SCRSWM include, but are not limited to:

1. Prepare a Bangsamoro Solid Waste Management Framework;

2. Develop a format for the LGU Solid Waste Management Plan in line with the regional framework;

3. Assist LGUs in formulating their Local Solid Waste Management Plans and review, monitor, and assess these plans; and

4. Approve Solid Waste Management Plans of the provinces, cities, and municipalities in the BARMM.

The members of Sub-Com on RSWM shall meet at least once every quarter to develop plans and strategies to effectively execute their duties and responsibilities and strengthen RA 9003 implementation.