KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato – The Provincial Government of South Cotabato has concluded its 2024 Clean and Green Program, recognizing outstanding Local Government Units (LGUs) and individuals for their exemplary environmental initiatives. The awards ceremony was held during the Provincial Ecology Day and Recyclable Waste Fair on November 22, 2024, at the South Cotabato Gymnasium and Cultural Center.
Surallah emerged as the Grand Winner in the Province-wide Search for Clean and Green, showcasing innovative strategies and exemplary performance in governance, waste management, and green space development. Engr. Roldan Eusoya, Acting Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Officer (MENRO) of Surallah, emphasized the importance of sustaining these initiatives:
“This is a big help para nga ma-sustain naton ang programa sa province kag ang programa sa kada LGU para nga ma-maintain naton ang cleanliness sa palibot.”
In the individual category, Mercidita Egloba of Tampakan clinched the 1st Place in the Search for Inter-Household Clean and Green competition. She expressed gratitude for the government’s efforts in solid waste management:
“Naga pasalamat gyud ko sa gobyerno bahin sa solid-waste management kay ingon-ana ilang pamaagi aron kita nga katawhan magasunod sa ila tungod ug alang sa atong kaayuhan.”
The program, with over ₱2.65 million in prizes, marked the return of municipal-level field evaluations after a five-year hiatus. Evaluations covered environmental performance from January 2023 to June 2024, focusing on clean and green governance, public facilities, and community involvement.
Winners received monetary prizes, with the first placer taking home ₱850,000. Special awards were also given in categories such as Best Public Market, Best SWM School Model, and Best Parks and Green Space. Dole Philippines Inc. sponsored an additional ₱60,000 for specific categories.
The Hall of Fame recognition remains a prestigious honor for LGUs, with Polomolok as the current holder of the Perpetual Trophy.
The program underscores South Cotabato’s commitment to sustainable environmental practices, fostering collaboration among LGUs, communities, and schools to ensure long-term ecological balance and community well-being.
