From Waste to Wealth: Kauswagan’s Eco-Friendly Revolution

COURTESY: KAUSWAGAN, Lanao del Norte (PIA)

KAUSWAGAN, Lanao del Norte (PIA) — Imagine a town where waste isn't just waste, but a resource for growth and sustainability. In Kauswagan, that vision is becoming a reality with the inauguration of a groundbreaking sanitary landfill in Barangay Tugar. This three-hectare marvel serves as the symbol of the town's commitment to responsible waste management, showcasing state-of-the-art facilities including a vermicomposting area, a material recovery facility, and even an organic vegetable garden!

Mayor Rommel Arnado, the visionary behind this project, has been a staunch advocate for improving garbage collection and waste management since taking office. His determination to implement recycling ordinances and use modern equipment has transformed the town's approach to waste. With covered garbage trucks and a computerized weighbridge system, Kauswagan is setting the standard for eco-friendly innovation.

But what truly sets Kauswagan apart is its community-driven approach. The new facility doesn't just manage waste; it empowers the community by providing livelihood opportunities. Residents can earn income by recycling plastic bottles into eco-bricks or engaging in organic vegetable farming and hollow-block making. This isn't just waste management; it's an economic revolution!

Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Officer Felisa Ritsel Alivio has been instrumental in this transformation. By shifting from an open dump site to a sanitary landfill, Kauswagan complies with the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act No. 9003 of 2000. This shift isn't just about managing waste; it's about educating the community on environmental stewardship. The "no segregation, no collection" policy ensures that residents are active participants in this sustainable movement.

For recycling specialists like Casana Pernia and Elvis Bigornia, the impact of this initiative is personal. Casana, a farmer, has found new economic opportunities in recycling, while Elvis, previously employed at a coal-fired plant, now focuses on waste collection and recycling. Their stories highlight the transformative power of Kauswagan's approach, where waste management becomes a pathway to a better life.

Elvis shares how training provided by the local government has enabled him to teach his community about the importance of recycling and proper waste segregation. This ripple effect is changing attitudes and behaviors, ensuring that Kauswagan's environmental efforts are sustainable for generations to come.

Kauswagan's sanitary landfill isn't just a facility; it's a model for what can be achieved when innovation, community involvement, and environmental responsibility come together. Mayor Arnado's pride in this achievement is palpable, and rightly so. This initiative is a rare and momentous step forward, blending modern waste collection methods with a livelihood program that benefits the entire community.

As the world grapples with mounting environmental challenges, Kauswagan's success story serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration. By turning waste into wealth, this town is proving that with the right mindset and collaboration, we can all contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future. Whether you're a local resident or an observer from afar, Kauswagan's journey is a testament to the power of innovation and community spirit.

Aligning Visions: How RD Abrogar and Governor Unabia are Paving the Path to Prosperity

COURTESY: TESDA Region X

Hey there, fellow change-makers! If you've ever wondered how two dynamic leaders can come together to ignite a transformation for a community, you're in for a treat. On September 2, 2024, something remarkable happened in Misamis Oriental. TESDA Region X's newly appointed Regional Director, Dir. Rafael Y. Abrogar II, and Governor Peter M. Unabia sat down for a chat that could change the face of poverty in their province. Buckle up as we dive into how this powerful duo is aligning TESD programs to achieve single-digit poverty incidence in Misamis Oriental.

Imagine two captains steering a ship towards a brighter future. That's exactly what happened when RD Abrogar and Governor Unabia met at the Provincial Capitol. This wasn't just any meeting; it was a pivotal moment filled with big ideas and even bigger dreams. With TESDA Misamis Oriental Provincial Director, Marigold Cherie R. Garrido, in the mix, there was a palpable sense of excitement in the air.

Their discussions weren't just about nodding in agreement; they were about crafting a roadmap to prosperity. They talked about how to align their efforts to hit those ambitious single-digit poverty incidence targets. Spoiler alert: they had some pretty innovative strategies up their sleeves.

One of the most exciting initiatives discussed was the Korean Language Training in Gingoog. Picture this: 100 eager workers gearing up to head to South Korea, but first, they're getting a crash course in the language at the Provincial Training Center Misamis Oriental. This isn't just about grammar and vocabulary; it's about giving them the tools to thrive in a foreign land.

By learning Korean, these workers aren't just expanding their horizons—they're opening doors to opportunities that could change their lives. And let's be real, who wouldn't want to say "annyeonghaseyo" to a brighter future?

Now, let's talk about the delicious side of this collaboration. RD Abrogar and Governor Unabia are exploring opportunities for TESDA graduates to gain on-the-job training in Hong Kong's bustling hotel and restaurant scene. Imagine the culinary skills they'll bring back home!

This isn't just about honing skills; it's about giving graduates a taste of international standards and expectations. By working in renowned establishments, they'll gain invaluable experience that will make them stand out in the job market back home. It's like serving up a five-star dish of career growth!

For those with a knack for precision and craftsmanship, there's something sizzling in the pipeline. The deployment of Shielded Metal Arc Welding NC II graduates to Korea and Japan is a game-changer. Thanks to the initiative of PESO Misamis Oriental, these skilled individuals will have the chance to weld their way to success overseas.

But it doesn't stop there. This initiative is about more than just jobs—it's about building a community of skilled professionals who can uplift their families and inspire others. With every weld, they're not just shaping metal; they're shaping their future.

In a bold move, RD Abrogar and Governor Unabia are pushing for mandatory employment of at least 30% of TESDA Scholarship Program graduates. This isn't just a statistic; it's a promise to every graduate that their hard work will pay off.

By ensuring that graduates find employment, they're not just checking off a box—they're investing in the future of Misamis Oriental. With this initiative, the province is saying, "We believe in you, and we're here to support you every step of the way."

Last but certainly not least, let's talk tourism. The collaboration is set to strengthen partnerships with leading hotels in Davao and Cebu, like the prestigious Sheraton. For tourism graduates, this means promising positions in the hospitality industry are within reach.

This isn't just about landing a job; it's about becoming ambassadors of Filipino hospitality. By working in renowned hotels, graduates will not only gain experience but also showcase the warmth and artistry that make the Philippines a top tourist destination.

As we wrap up this whirlwind of ideas and initiatives, one thing is clear: RD Abrogar and Governor Unabia are on a mission to uplift Misamis Oriental. Through targeted educational and employment initiatives, they're not just aiming for single-digit poverty incidence—they're working towards a future where every Misamisnon can thrive.

So, what's the takeaway? It's simple: when visionary leaders come together with a shared goal, magic happens. Misamis Oriental is on the brink of transformation, and with leaders like RD Abrogar and Governor Unabia at the helm, the future looks incredibly bright. Here's to a journey towards prosperity, one initiative at a time!