DIFFUN, Quirino (PIA) -- The Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (DENR-PENRO) has partnered with the local government of Quirino to implement strict solid waste management measures to preserve the natural beauty of tourist spots in the province.  

In a recent meeting, PENRO called on the municipal governments to adopt measures to stop the indiscriminate disposal of waste in nature spots in the province, especially non-biodegradable wastes that would destroy the environment and affect the popularity of the destinations. 

Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer Mariam Frances Malana cited the “Basura mo, Iuwi Mo” initiative of the Local Government Unit of Diffun in its tourist spots in Barangay Baguio Village, which could be replicated by other towns.

Officials of the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources-Quirino conduct information drive on solid waste management to the members of non-government organizations and the community within the ecotourism park of Diffun town. (Photo courtesy of DENR) 

Baguio Village is the home of Diffun Eco Park with lush forest and natural spots like the Ganano Falls, Sinipit Falls, Nantugao Falls, Sabangaran Falls, and Batumbaket Rock Formation.

“We would like to further strengthen the "Basura Mo, Iuwi Mo” program of the LGU in Baguio Village. This program encourages all visitors to take home all trash to ensure responsible waste management within the park,” Malana said. 

The DENR also tapped various non-government organizations in the province including the Baguio Village Integrated Cultural Association and the Don Mariano Perez Farmers Consumers Cooperative to help in the promotion of eco-friendly tourism.

Malana further said their office will also conduct intensive information and education campaigns on RA 9003 or the Solid Waste Management Act and other environmental laws to the communities within the ecotourism sites involving various sectors.

The Ganano Falls (left) and the Batumbakel (right) that are frequently visited by tourist in Diffun, Quirino. (Photo courtesy of DENR) 

“These initiatives mark a significant step toward a zero-waste approach in the province and towards the attainment of the goal of transforming Quirino into a more vibrant and more eco-friendly municipality with natural landscapes,” Malana said.

Further, Malana said plogging activities will be done regularly to ensure a cleaner and healthier environment for the tourists and the locals in the tourist zones.

Diffun Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Officer Jessie Delio Vaquilar said the local government will allocate a portion of its tourism revenues to sustain the program.

Vaquilar also encouraged the residents and tourists to actively participate in responsible waste disposal to minimize environmental threats. (OTB/TCB/PIA-2, Quirino)