Hike Up, Clean Up, and Community Forum on Solid Waste Management.

Neither the rain nor the rugged trail could dampen the team’s spirit—their determination stood firm as they carried out the activity with passion and perseverance. More than 150 volunteers gathered on June 27, 2025, for the “Hike Up, Clean Up, and Community Forum on Solid Waste Management”, an environmental initiative led by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources–Environmental Management Bureau (DENR–EMB) Region I, in collaboration with the Local Government Unit of San Gabriel, La Union. Held at the picturesque Tangadan Falls, the event was part of the nationwide observance of Philippine Environment Month, anchored on the theme, “Ending Global Plastic Pollution.” Designed to go beyond cleanup efforts, the initiative aimed to raise public awareness, promote behavioral change, and foster intersectoral collaboration in addressing the urgent issue of plastic pollution and promoting effective, sustainable solid waste management practices.
The activity officially commenced with an opening program held at the trailhead, drawing together community members, partner agencies, and volunteers in a unified commitment to environmental protection. The event was honored by the presence of San Gabriel Mayor,Hon. Lany B. Carbonell, who delivered a compelling and heartfelt message on the significance of continuous environmental advocacy. She reminded the participants that while Philippine Environment Month provides a platform to spotlight environmental issues, the true measure of impact lies in our ability to transform awareness into consistent, meaningful action throughout the year. Mayor Carbonell emphasized the need for community-driven initiatives, cooperation among sectors, and an enduring sense of responsibility to safeguard natural treasures like Tangadan Falls.
Setting the tone for a safe and successful activity, Environmental Management Specialist II, Ms. Venus D. Laoad briefed all participants on the day’s schedule, safety protocols, and logistical considerations. Her orientation helped ensure that the event was not only productive but also well-coordinated and risk-aware, especially given the challenging terrain of the falls. This preparatory segment reflected the organizers’ dedication to both environmental impact and the well-being of all participants, reinforcing the value of discipline and preparedness in volunteer-led ecological efforts.
Also, the forum created a space for open dialogue and collaborative learning, where barangay officials, community members, and volunteers were encouraged to ask questions, share challenges, and voice their suggestions regarding local waste management practices. By engaging directly with the community, the forum helped to deepen public understanding of the law and inspired a stronger collective commitment to long-term, actionable solutions.
Participants in the initiative came from a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including EMB Region I, DENR Regional Office I, barangay councils, the Philippine National Police, the Tangadan Life Vest Association, accredited tour guides, and local residents of Barangay Amontoc. Their united efforts resulted in the collection of approximately 5.3 kilograms of waste, primarily composed of plastic bottles, food wrappers, and tin cans—common pollutants that pose significant threats to natural ecosystems.
More than just a cleanup activity, the initiative served as a symbol of shared responsibility and collective action toward environmental preservation. It highlighted the importance of community involvement in protecting ecologically sensitive and high-traffic tourism sites like Tangadan Falls, where sustainable practices are essential to maintaining the area’s natural beauty and ecological balance for future generations.
As Philippine Environment Month draws to a close, EMB Region I aspire for this initiative to be more than a one-day event—it is envisioned as a catalyst for long-term, community-driven action against plastic pollution. The Bureau encourages individuals, organizations, and local governments to carry forward the momentum by integrating sustainable practices into their daily lives and fostering a culture of environmental accountability and stewardship. Let this collective effort at Tangadan Falls be a reminder that protecting the environment is not a once-a-year responsibility, but a continuous commitment—one that begins with awareness, grows through action, and thrives through unity.
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