As thousands prepare to flock to this month’s Dinagyang and Ati-Atihan festivals, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR-6) is calling on both locals and tourists to practice responsible waste management to keep the celebrations clean and sustainable.
In a statement, DENR-6 reminded the public to properly segregate trash into biodegradable, non-biodegradable, and recyclable categories and to dispose of them only in designated trash bins placed across festival streets and judging areas.
Biodegradable waste includes food scraps, while non-biodegradable covers plastics and wrappers; recyclables include bottles and cans.
“Proper segregation accelerates waste collection and reduces the volume sent to our sanitary landfill. It’s not just about cleanliness—it reflects our respect for culture and faith,” said DENR-6.
The agency also urged festival-goers to avoid single-use plastics, instead bringing reusable bottles and bags for purchases and souvenirs.
Such measures, the DENR emphasized, will help transform these major cultural events into eco-friendly, green festivals.
Last year, the Dinagyang highlights alone generated over 82 tons of waste during its three-day celebration.
While there is no official record for Ati-Atihan, complaints about uncollected trash in festival zones were widespread.
“With the city and province’s cleanliness on display, it is up to each Ilonggo and visitor to show discipline in waste management. How we celebrate says as much about us as the festivals themselves,” the agency added.IMT
