Koronadal City, South Cotabato — The Provincial Government of South Cotabato, through the Office of the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer (OPENRO), has officially activated its Task Force Kalinisan to ensure cleanliness and order during the T’nalak Festival 2025.
In an interview on T’nalak TV, Ms. Juvylyn Campaan of OPENRO shared that this year’s festival will deploy 50 sweepers and garbage collectors, as well as 10 enforcers, from July 5 to 19. Their deployment covers areas from Protech Center to DBP, all the way to LBC, including Rizal Park and the festival rides area.
“Although the number remains the same as last year, the increase in stall owners this year requires more vigilance,” Campaan explained. “Hindi kay may 50 na kita, kasarang na ina. Dapat maging responsable gihapon ang tanan sa ila basura.”
The sweepers and pickers will wear official IDs, while the enforcers can be identified through their blue vests. While uniforms for all were initially considered, budget limitations prevented full implementation.
Waste Collection & Segregation Guidelines
All stall owners are required to have three labelled trash bins for biodegradable, non-biodegradable, and recyclables. They must also provide containers for barbecue sticks and ensure waste bins are sealed and leak-free. Waste collection begins daily from 6:00 AM to 6:30 AM, and garbage must be left securely outside stalls for pickup, ensuring stray animals cannot access it.
A key rule this year: only transparent garbage bags are allowed to help enforcers check for proper segregation. Failure to comply can result in penalties or citation tickets.
Ordinance Enforcement & Penalties
Enforcers will strictly implement City Ordinance No. 5, Series of 2016 (Comprehensive Solid Waste Management Code), Ordinance No. 2, Series of 2017 (Anti-Smoking and Vaping), and related regulations.
Violations such as improper disposal, smoking, or vaping in restricted areas carry fines:
• ₱1,000 for the first offence
• ₱2,000 for the second offence
• ₱3,000 for the third offence
For violators unable to pay, community service may be imposed as an alternative penalty.
“Respeto lang gid sa aton kalibutan kag sa aton mga kauban. Daku ini nga selebrasyon, pero kinahanglan disiplina para indi mabahiran sang basura,” Campaan emphasized.
No Public Bins Provided
The provincial government has opted not to place public garbage bins this year due to past misuse and theft. Instead, waste collection will focus on designated pickup areas near stalls.
As the T’nalak Festival kicks off, the OPENRO reminds the public: “Ang kalimpyo sang selebrasyon, responsibilidad sang tanan.” Let’s all do our part in maintaining a clean, safe, and vibrant festival experience for everyone.
