BULUAN, Maguindanao — In observance of National Cleanup Month celebrated nationwide every September, the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources, and Energy (MENRE) – BARMM, through the Environment Management Services (EMS), leads the cleanup and greening activity in Payatas Creek in Buluan, Maguindanao on 16 September 2021.

The Local Government Unit of Buluan, the MENRO, and barangay officials, together with MENRE’s estero partner company, Agumil Philippines Incorporated, volunteered to join the Ministry to support and complement the country’s clean-up and environmental greening activities.

Six (6) garbage bins donated by Agumil were turned over to the MENRO and the barangays.

“When we conducted an initial ocular inspection in Payatas Creek 2 months ago, we saw that the Creek is not heavily polluted. However, it still needs a regular cleanup to maintain water quality,” said EMS Director Jalani M. Pamlian.

“This activity will benefit not only the company but also the residents and households residing near the creek. Through this cleanup drive, we will be able to increase their awareness of the importance of proper waste disposal and its impact on our health and environment,” Director added.

Proclamation No. 244, s. 1993 declared the month of September of each year as National Cleanup Month. The Proclamation emphasizes that public participation, along with government and non-government organizations’ efforts, is critical in garbage reduction, recycling, and composting, and the rehabilitation of our waterways.