THE RECENTLY concluded Dinagyang Festival was nothing short of spectacular. It showcased Iloilo City’s rich cultural heritage, artistry, and unparalleled hospitality to locals and visitors alike. However, as the confetti settled and the streets emptied, we saw this – massive 82 tons of garbage collected during the festival’s three-day highlights.
The efforts of the General Services Office (GSO), led by Engineer Neil Ravena, deserve high praise. Starting at the break of dawn and working tirelessly to ensure the city streets were spotless by sunrise, their dedication prevented the festival aftermath from devolving into a public nuisance. Mayor Jerry Treñas’ decision to close the food festival by 2 a.m. on January 27 further facilitated smoother clean-up operations, plus the deployment of fire trucks for street flushing and the swift removal of banderitas.
The challenges posed by the festival’s sheer scale and the volume of waste generated should prompt serious consideration of more sustainable practices for future editions of Dinagyang. While the Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) in Barangay Calajunan provided an avenue for sorting and recycling plastics into eco-boards, the staggering amount of waste collected raises questions about prevention rather than just clean-up.
Certainly, there areas needing improvement such as stricter waste management protocols. Vendors and attendees must be held accountable for their waste generation. The city government may require all food and merchandise stalls to use biodegradable packaging materials. Additionally, implementing a “zero-waste” policy for festival-goers, with designated waste segregation stations, could reduce the burden on clean-up crews.
But clean-up efforts should not fall solely on the shoulders of GSO workers. Community volunteers, barangay councils, and civic organizations could be mobilized to assist in clean-up drives, fostering a shared sense of responsibility among Ilonggos.
The city government may also consider a reward system for vendors and barangays that generate the least waste. Recognition for sustainable practices can encourage wider compliance and participation.
Festivals can serve as platforms for environmental advocacy. Educational campaigns during the Dinagyang season could highlight the importance of waste reduction and recycling, encouraging festival-goers to be mindful of their trash.
Beyond being a celebration of Ilonggo culture, Dinagyang shows who we are as a people. By addressing the environmental challenges that come with hosting such grand festivities, Iloilo City can set an example for other cities across the Philippines. Let us not wait until the streets overflow with garbage before taking action. A clean city is not just a source of pride — it is a gift we give to future generations of Ilonggos.
