QUEZON CITY, (PIA) -- The Department of Environment and Natural Resources National Capital Region (DENR NCR) has signed a memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with Basic Environmental Systems & Technologies, Inc. for the implementation of Trash to Cashback Program through a mobile phone application.

BEST, Inc., is the company behind the My Basurero app, a waste collection service that allows users to exchange their recyclables for Environmental Points (EP). Accumulated EPs can be used to purchase goods and services from partner merchant-members of the program.

The MOA was signed by DENR NCR Regional Executive Director Jacqueline A. Caancan and BEST, Inc. Senior Vice President for Operation Emelita C. Aguinaldo.

Under the agreement, DENR NCR will provide space for BEST, Inc. at the National Ecology Center (NEC) to serve as My Basurero Eco-Community Canter (MBE-C) drop-off point. People with recyclables may bring their items to the MBE-C and exchange these for points.

DENR NCR will also help promote the program to its employees, clientele, and constituents within its jurisdiction and extend assistance to ensure the smooth operation of the program.

Caancan announced that the regional office is planning to replicate MBE-C drop off points at the DENR-NCR Production Nursery Compound in North Avenue, Quezon City, and in its Field Offices—in particular, at the North Field Office in Navotas City, South Field Office in Paranaque City, and West Field Office in Manila.

According to the regional director, the additional MBE-C drop off points will widen the coverage of the program and help reduce the amount of recyclable materials that end up in waterways and will contribute to efforts on the cleanup and rehabilitation of Manila Bay.

“Solid waste management in the country, especially in Metro Manila, continue to be a major issue problem despite the passage of a landmark law a decade before. One stumbling block to the successful implementation of the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act or RA 9003 is the behavior and attitude of the people on the issue,” Caancan said.

“People tend to think that household wastes have no use after they are discarded. We need to change this mindset,” Caancan added.

“With this program, we may be able to instill in them the value of recycling. The program may help them realize that, indeed, may pera sa basura (there is money in garbage),” Caancan said.

Assistant Regional Director for Special Concerns Jose Martin V. Despi and BEEPXTRA Philippines, Inc. President Jan Vincent P. Mercado. Ms. Haidee D. Pabalate, the regional focal for the Manila Bay Site Coordinating and Management Office (MBSCMO) were also present during the ceremonial signing. (DENR NCR/PIA-NCR)