Survey Highlights Gaps in Community Awareness and Practices in Healthcare Waste Management

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

As part of ongoing efforts to improve healthcare waste management in the Philippines, the Philippine Healthcare and Mercury Wastes Management Project (HCW Project) recently conducted a Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) survey to gauge community awareness about healthcare waste. This extensive survey covered three key hospitals significantly affected by the surge in healthcare waste during the COVID-19 pandemic: Quirino Memorial Medical Center (QMMC) in Quezon City, Cagayan Valley Medical Center (CVMC) in Tuguegarao City, and Eastern Visayas Medical Center (EVMC) in Tacloban City. A total of 923 respondents, including hospital patients, visitors, and local community members, participated in the survey, providing valuable insights into current waste management practices.

The survey's findings were revealed during a forum on January 17 in celebration of International Zero Waste Month, shedding light on regional disparities in awareness and practices. While respondents across the three hospitals demonstrated a general understanding of waste segregation and management programs, several significant gaps in knowledge were uncovered. Most notably, a lack of awareness and misconceptions regarding hazardous waste disposal and waste minimization practices were identified as areas requiring urgent attention.

Key Insights and Regional Differences

The data gathered pointed to clear differences in waste management awareness between the hospitals and the surrounding barangay communities. For instance, respondents from QMMC, which has implemented progressive initiatives such as material recovery, waste treatment facilities, and urban gardening for composting, showed higher levels of awareness and a more positive attitude toward waste management. On the other hand, local communities near QMMC had a much lower understanding, with many residents unaware of proper hazardous waste disposal practices and waste minimization strategies.

Challenges across the board included uncollected hospital waste, inadequate provision of color-coded bins, and improper disposal practices in surrounding areas. These issues indicate that improvements are needed in both infrastructure and education efforts. However, respondents expressed a strong willingness to engage in awareness programs, with healthcare providers and barangay leaders seen as the preferred sources of information.

A Call for Education and Infrastructure Enhancement

Jam Lorenzo, Deputy Executive Director of BAN Toxics and Manager of the HCW Project, emphasized the importance of assessing community awareness to create effective, long-term solutions. "Understanding the gaps in community knowledge is key to developing strategies that can ensure the sustainability of waste management programs," he stated. "The HCW Project aims to improve local systems, foster sustainable practices, and reduce the environmental and health risks posed by improper healthcare waste management."

To address these issues, the HCW Project plans to collaborate with various stakeholders, including local government units, healthcare providers, and community leaders. These partnerships will be crucial in implementing targeted awareness campaigns and promoting sustainable interventions aimed at improving waste segregation practices, reducing waste volumes, and creating more efficient management systems.

A National Commitment to Sustainability

Launched in December 2023, the HCW Project is a five-year initiative funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and executed by BAN Toxics, with support from the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB). On January 31, 2025, a national workshop will formally launch the project’s comprehensive program focused on environmentally-sound healthcare waste management practices.

The survey results underscore the importance of tackling healthcare waste management through a collaborative and educational approach. As the project moves forward, it remains committed to enhancing local systems and raising awareness in communities to ensure a cleaner, healthier environment for all Filipinos.

In the News: Expanding the Conversation on Waste Management

Recently, there has been a surge in interest surrounding waste management and sustainability, both locally and globally. The rise in healthcare waste during the COVID-19 pandemic has put a spotlight on the importance of environmentally responsible practices in medical settings. Across the Philippines, municipalities are starting to implement more stringent waste segregation laws, while organizations like BAN Toxics and HCW Project continue to advocate for systemic changes. With government support, these initiatives have the potential to significantly impact not just the healthcare industry, but also the public’s overall approach to waste reduction, with a particular focus on zero waste and recycling.

Looking Ahead

As the HCW Project moves into its next phase, it will continue to address the challenges identified through the KAP survey, from insufficient community education to gaps in waste infrastructure. The upcoming national workshop will further guide efforts toward a sustainable future, while the lessons learned from QMMC, CVMC, and EVMC will serve as a crucial blueprint for future interventions.

The HCW Project represents a pivotal step in addressing the growing environmental concerns linked to healthcare waste in the Philippines, setting a precedent for a more sustainable and health-conscious approach to waste management that can inspire change across the nation.

Benhur Abalos: A Legacy of Action and Service

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In the dynamic landscape of Philippine politics, few figures embody the spirit of decisive action and unwavering service like Benjamin "Benhur" de Castro Abalos Jr. From his early days as a city councilor to his recent bid for a Senate seat, Abalos has consistently demonstrated a commitment to public service that resonates with the Filipino people.

A Journey Rooted in Service

Born on July 19, 1962, Benhur Abalos hails from a family deeply entrenched in public service. His father, Benjamin Abalos Sr., served as the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) chairman and was also a mayor of Mandaluyong. Benhur's educational journey led him to De La Salle University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history and political science, followed by a Bachelor of Laws from Ateneo de Manila University. Admitted to the bar in 1988, he embarked on a career that would see him serve in various capacities, including as a city councilor, mayor, and congressman in Mandaluyong.

Leadership in Mandaluyong

Abalos's tenure in Mandaluyong is marked by transformative leadership. As mayor from 1998 to 2004 and again from 2007 to 2016, he was instrumental in earning the city the moniker "Tiger City of the Philippines." His governance was characterized by infrastructure development, economic growth, and a focus on public welfare. Notably, he served as the president of both the Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines (ULAP) and the League of Cities of the Philippines (LCP), a testament to his influence and leadership in local governance.

National Roles and Initiatives

In 2021, Abalos was appointed as the chairman of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), where he led efforts to address urban challenges, including traffic management and disaster response. His leadership was further recognized when he was appointed Secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) in 2022. During his tenure, he focused on promoting peace and order, enhancing local governance, and implementing the Buhay Ingatan, Droga’y Ayawan (BIDA) program, which significantly increased drug confiscations. 

Recent Developments

In October 2024, Abalos filed his Certificate of Candidacy for the Senate, signaling his intent to continue serving the nation at a higher level. This move necessitated his resignation from the DILG, with Cavite Governor Jonvic Remulla succeeding him. His candidacy has been met with support from various sectors, including his father, former Comelec chairman and current Mandaluyong City Mayor Benjamin Abalos Sr., who emphasized the importance of remembering those who have supported one's journey. 

Commitment to Action

Abalos's political messaging has consistently emphasized the need for swift and effective action. His campaign slogans, such as #BilisKilos and #GawaHindiSalita, underscore his commitment to tangible results over mere rhetoric. He advocates for legislation that addresses pressing issues like the rising cost of goods, unemployment, and corruption, highlighting the necessity for a Senate that acts decisively. 

A Vision for the Future

As Abalos campaigns for a Senate seat, his track record of action and service positions him as a candidate who understands the intricacies of governance and the needs of the Filipino people. His leadership in local government, coupled with his national experience, equips him to contribute meaningfully to legislative processes that aim to uplift the nation.

Conclusion

Benhur Abalos's journey from a city councilor to a Senate candidate reflects a life dedicated to public service and action. His unwavering commitment to addressing the challenges faced by Filipinos, combined with his extensive experience in governance, makes him a compelling figure in the current political landscape. As the nation looks toward the future, Abalos's vision and dedication offer hope for a more prosperous and just Philippines.

PinoyAko Partylist: A Closer Look at Its Impact, Candidates, and the Call for Reform

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As the 2025 national elections approach, the PinoyAko Partylist has become one of the most talked-about political groups in the Philippines. While it was initially formed to represent marginalized sectors, the partylist's recent moves, especially the inclusion of celebrity candidates, have sparked widespread debate. From large billboards to heated online discussions, PinoyAko is now at the center of a storm questioning the integrity of the partylist system and whether it truly serves the needs of those it was designed to help.

The Party List’s Growth and Challenges

While the PinoyAko Party List has made significant strides in pushing for reforms, it continues to face challenges typical of party-list organizations in the Philippines, such as political polarization and limited resources. Some critics argue that party-list representatives often struggle to remain focused on the grassroots issues once in office. Despite these hurdles, PinoyAko’s presence in Congress has made it an important force for advocating change, especially for those who have traditionally been excluded from political representation.

PinoyAko Partylist was created to provide a platform for marginalized communities in the Philippines. The idea behind partylist groups is simple: to ensure that the voices of underserved sectors are heard in the legislative process. However, as the system has evolved, it has been criticized for being hijacked by well-known personalities, corporations, and individuals who may not necessarily belong to the marginalized groups they claim to represent. This has led to accusations that the partylist system is being used more as a political stepping stone than a genuine advocacy platform.

The Celebrity Factor: Andrew E’s Bid for Congress?

One of the most controversial figures associated with the PinoyAko Partylist is Andrew E, the popular Filipino comedian and rapper. His massive billboard near Nepa Q-Mart in Quezon City has drawn significant attention, both from his supporters and detractors. Andrew E, who has been a staple in the entertainment industry for decades, now seeks to leverage his fame and influence for a seat in Congress?

But is he really among the candidates under the PinoyAko partylist or just an endorser hired to promote?

While many fans are excited about his candidacy, others are skeptical. Critics argue that Andrew E, like many other faded celebrities, may be using politics as a way to regain relevance and financial stability, rather than genuinely advocating for marginalized communities. This view has been echoed in numerous online discussions, where voters question whether celebrities should be allowed to run for office simply because they have name recognition.

The criticism doesn't stop at Andrew E's candidacy. It’s part of a larger concern regarding the partylist system itself. Should it be a platform for entertainers, or should it remain focused on representing the real needs of marginalized Filipinos? Many have called on the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to regulate the system more strictly to ensure that only those who truly represent these sectors are given a voice in Congress.

Calls for Reform: Ensuring Authentic Representation

The rise of celebrity-backed partylists like PinoyAko has highlighted a major flaw in the current partylist system: the potential for misuse by well-known figures seeking to gain political power. Public outcry over the increasing involvement of celebrities in politics has led to widespread calls for reform. Many argue that the partylist system should be about helping the marginalized, not boosting the career of a popular personality.

Critics have called for stricter regulations to ensure that partylist nominees come from the sectors they are supposed to represent. There is a growing demand for transparency and fairness, with some suggesting the following reforms:

Sector Authenticity: Partylist groups should accurately represent the sectors they claim to serve. There should be no room for "duplicated" representation, and partylist names should reflect their actual purpose.

Qualified Nominees: Nominees should be chosen based on their genuine connection to and advocacy for the marginalized sector, rather than their celebrity status or popularity.

Partylist Transparency: Voters should be informed about the real track record of partylist nominees, ensuring that those who seek to represent a sector have the experience and commitment to do so effectively.

Without such reforms, the partylist system risks becoming a popularity contest where the loudest voices—often those with the most fame—win, rather than those with the best solutions for the issues at hand.

Public Perception: Celebrity Politics or Genuine Advocacy?

The involvement of celebrities in the PinoyAko Partylist raises an important question about the nature of political representation. Should celebrities like Andrew E be allowed to use their fame as a stepping stone to higher office, or should partylist groups be reserved for those with real expertise in representing the marginalized? While celebrities undeniably bring attention to the issues they advocate for, the core of the debate lies in whether they truly understand the complexities of the sectors they claim to represent.

As one online commenter pointed out, the true purpose of a partylist is to serve the people who have been neglected by traditional politics. The rise of former entertainers entering the political arena, many of whom have little background in social issues or governance, has made it clear that the system is in need of reform.

The Need for Electoral Reforms

The PinoyAko Partylist and its celebrity candidates are just one example of a larger issue that plagues the partylist system: the potential for misuse. The calls for reform are not just about regulating celebrities, but about ensuring that the system truly represents the marginalized sectors it was designed to uplift. Without proper oversight and transparency, the partylist system risks being hijacked by individuals looking to capitalize on their fame rather than those who have dedicated their lives to serving underserved communities.

In the end, the Filipino electorate will have the final say on whether PinoyAko and similar groups are truly committed to serving the marginalized or if they are simply another example of celebrity-driven politics. As the election nears, it will be crucial for voters to weigh the qualifications, track record, and genuine intentions of candidates—celebrity or not—before casting their votes.

Conclusion

The controversy surrounding the PinoyAko Partylist is far from over. With its celebrity-backed candidate and the ongoing debate about the integrity of the partylist system, it’s clear that this is a political issue that deserves attention. As we approach the 2025 elections, the question remains: will partylist groups continue to serve as a platform for those who genuinely represent marginalized sectors, or will they become yet another vehicle for political opportunism? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure—reform is needed if the system is to fulfill its original purpose of empowering the underrepresented.