ANGELES CITY – On March 10, 2025, the Angeles City Government, under the leadership of Mayor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin Jr., continued its innovative Walang Plastikan – Plastik Palit Bigas project at the Pampang Public Market. The project, which has gained attention for its unique approach to waste management, encourages market vendors to practice waste segregation and reduce, if not eliminate, the use of plastic materials.
The Walang Plastikan – Plastik Palit Bigas initiative operates on a simple yet impactful premise: for every kilo of recyclable plastic collected, participants receive one kilo of rice. This exchange program aims to motivate individuals to actively engage in environmental efforts while also addressing the needs of local communities.
Under the supervision of Environmental Management System (EMS) Head Kiko Pangilinan, the project has proven to be an effective way of not only managing plastic waste but also supporting the community. The collected plastics are being repurposed into durable brick pavers, contributing to both waste reduction and infrastructure development in the city.
The program has been especially successful in the Pampang Public Market, where vendors are encouraged to bring their recyclable plastics to the designated collection points. In return, they receive rice, a staple food that is in high demand among local families. This practical exchange helps reduce the amount of plastic waste in the area while simultaneously benefiting the community with essential resources.
Mayor Lazatin expressed his ongoing commitment to improving environmental sustainability in the city, highlighting the success of the Walang Plastikan – Plastik Palit Bigas project as a model for other barangays and markets to follow. He emphasized the importance of involving local communities in sustainable practices, noting that small changes in daily habits can lead to significant positive impacts on the environment.
The project also reflects the city’s broader commitment to promoting eco-friendly practices, such as waste segregation and recycling. By turning plastic waste into usable materials like brick pavers, the initiative supports the city’s efforts to reduce its carbon footprint while creating useful products that can be utilized for infrastructure projects.
With the continued success of the program, the Angeles City Government plans to expand the Walang Plastikan – Plastik Palit Bigas initiative to other barangays and markets, further promoting environmental awareness and sustainable practices across the city.
Source: Angeles City Information Office
