The Provincial Government of South Cotabato has significantly strengthened public health protection and environmental safety after the treatment of more than 28,800 kiloliters of infectious waste from hospitals and health facilities across the province in December 2025, according to the Office of the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer.
Under the province’s Integrated Infectious Waste Management Program, infectious waste were collected for treatment, while 21 hospitals were closely monitored to ensure strict compliance with solid waste management standards. “This level of infectious waste treatment reflects our commitment to public safety and environmental responsibility,” said Siegfred Flaviano, Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer.
The initiative directly supports the flagship governance agenda of Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo Jr., which prioritizes people centered governance by protecting public health, strengthening essential services, and safeguarding the environment.
“Proper handling and treatment of hospital waste is essential in preventing health risks, especially in densely populated areas. By closely monitoring hospitals and treatment facilities, we make sure that communities are protected and that health services operate safely and responsibly,” he explained.
The program plays a critical role in preventing the spread of disease, protecting health workers, patients, and surrounding communities, and ensuring that hazardous medical waste does not contaminate land and water resources.
“Our infectious waste management program ensures that all hazardous hospital waste is properly segregated, stored, transported, and treated through the province’s facility, fully compliant with national environmental standards and regular health institution inspections,” Flaviano said.
he South Cotabato Health Care Waste Treatment Facility (SCHCWTF) is the first local government managed and operated infectious/hospital waste treatment plant in Mindanao, designed to address the growing need for proper handling and disposal of medical wastes generated by hospitals, clinics, and other health facilities.
Situated within the Integrated Provincial Environment Management Center (IPEMC) in Brgy. Tinongcop, Tantangan, which spans about 4.9 hectares. Managed Office of the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer (OPENRO), the facility has trained personnel and uses approved treatment technology. It has been recognized for excellence in service and governance, including awards such as the CSC’s PAGASA Award, demonstrating its effective contribution to environmental management and public welfare.
