In response to persistent garbage management challenges, the Cebu City Government is set to intensify its public information efforts and enforcement of its waste segregation policy.
Two-Phase Implementation Plan
The city will roll out a wide-scale information campaign across all barangays from January 1 to 15, 2026. This initiative was proposed by Mayor Nestor Archival during the Solid Waste Management Board (SWMB) meeting on December 26, 2025. The campaign aims to strengthen waste management practices in every community.
Under this plan, the city will prioritize disseminating correct information on waste separation, with a special focus on public schools. Designated personnel will conduct information sessions. The SWMB will collaborate with the Barangay Councilors League of the Philippines (BCLP), through Barangay Luz Councilor Nida Cabrera, and the office of ABC President Franklyn Ong.
"From January 1 to January 15, we will really focus on information dissemination, including the use of radio as part of our campaign," Mayor Archival stated.
Strict Enforcement to Follow Campaign
Following the information drive, the enforcement of the Waste Segregation Program will begin from January 16 to 30, 2026. The mayor has directed Barangay Enforcement Officers (BEOs) to apprehend violators and issue citation tickets as a warning to those who fail to comply with the policy. They are also mandated to submit regular reports on their operations in each barangay.
During the meeting, Councilor Cabrera suggested that barangays should take charge of collecting segregated waste from schools. Mayor Archival emphasized the need to deploy trucks for waste collection in educational institutions.
Focus on School Compliance and Orientation
Mayor Archival has also tasked the Cebu City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CCENRO) and two members of the Management Improvement Program (MIP) to visit all 115 public schools in the city from January 5 to 10, 2026. These teams will conduct orientations and assess the schools' compliance with the program.
Furthermore, Mayor Archival is scheduled to meet with school principals next month to formally announce the program's implementation. This comprehensive approach underscores the city's commitment to tackling its solid waste problem through education, partnership, and stringent enforcement.
