Eco Kolek, PSU nursing students lead waste management and health intervention in Brgy. Sta. Monica

PUERTO PRINCESA CITY — To promote environmental awareness and responsible waste management, Eco Kolek under Project Zacchaeus (PZC) partnered with Palawan State University (PSU) nursing students to conduct a community training in Barangay Sta. Monica on April 23, 2026.

The event, titled "Lingap at Lunas: A Community Diagnosis-Based Intervention Plan for Improving Health Status in Selected Puroks of Barangay Sta. Monica," was held at the Sta. Monica Covered Court. The program aimed to educate household members on the principles of the Circular Economy and the environmental impacts of plastic pollution and improper waste disposal.

During the session, organizers detailed the differences between a traditional linear economy and a circular economy. Participants were taught how to properly classify and segregate household waste into biodegradable, recyclable, residual, and special categories in accordance with Republic Act 9003. Eco Kolek representatives also introduced the 10 R's of the Circular Economy, encouraging residents to adopt sustainable habits such as reducing waste, reusing materials, and properly turning over recyclables to designated Eco Warriors or Materials Recovery Facilities (MRFs).

The training utilized interactive methods, including an exercise where residents classified different waste items to assess their understanding and a scenario-based activity to reinforce the practical application of the 10 R's.

Beyond solid waste management, the intervention plan addressed broader community health and safety concerns. The program featured the WING S.T.O.P. Initiative, which focused on the community-based prevention of mosquito-borne diseases, and the "Kaisa Laban sa Sunog" segment, which educated participants on fire hazards and safety preparedness. The event also included an ECO-GALAW session to encourage active participation in correct waste disposal.

The program concluded with a valuing session where residents committed to applying at least one sustainable practice in their households. The event officially wrapped up with an awarding ceremony led by PSU clinical instructors and nursing students.