Search for Cleanest, Greenest barangay this City, on going

By ED MEJICA
September 7, 2006

TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte  –  In the hope and strong resolve to create and build a cleaner, greener, and healthier environment, the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO), together with the Department of Health, and Department of Interior and Local Government initiated the search for the “Clean, Green and Healthy Barangay in Tacloban City” as part of the Clean and Healthy Cities Initiative Program” launched sometime in the month of June this year.

This Program seeks to achieve a better social environment, which supports and promotes better health conditions and quality of life for the constituency.  Furthermore, it intends to educate Filipinos on the value of cleanliness, discipline and cooperation; and to increase the level of awareness on environmental issues.

In support of the program, Mayor Alfredo T. Romualdez issued an executive Order creating a technical working group on its advocacy in order to sustain its workable policies, and program in promoting a healthy environment for the city.

During the meeting, Jonathan Hijada, CENRO Chief, pointed out that the city major concern these days, in supporting its objectives is to get involved in looking and the search for the cleanest and greenest barangay from among its 138 barangay units.

From this initial stage, the city will be able to determine the top 3 qualifiers to vie for the regional and at the same time be qualified for the national competition.

Based on its guidelines, the search teams will focus their efforts this September, duly represented from the local government unit, the non-government organizations and from the national government, they’re so knowledgeable and possessing expertise in handling the selection process.

Ratings will be based on criteria from general cleanliness, with well-maintained facilities, presence of healthful and environmental health practices, etc. And, under the urban space greening, with well maintained green areas and some support system provided by the barangay on its programs and projects, etc., relative to sustain a healthful environment.

In a matter of three months, winners will be determined to receive P50,000; P30,000; and P15,000; for the first, second and third prizes respectively, with still 10 consolation prizes at stake.

The formal awarding will be scheduled this coming December 2006.