Koronadal City, South Cotabato —The Provincial Government of South Cotabato has officially launched its flagship 2024 Clean and Green Program, reaffirming its commitment to sustainable environmental practices across all Local Government Units (LGUs). With over ₱2.65 million in prizes at stake, the program marks the long-awaited return of municipal-level field evaluations after a five-year hiatus, signaling a renewed dedication to environmental excellence.
The evaluations are set to take place from September 17-20, September 24-27, and October 1-4, 2024, covering environmental performance from January 2023 to June 2024. LGUs will be assessed across several critical areas, including governance, waste management, parks and green spaces, as well as overall cleanliness. Random spot checks will also be conducted to ensure the effective implementation of the 10-year Solid Waste Management (SWM) plans.
Participating City and Municipal LGUs (C/MLGUs) are tasked with selecting barangays and community garden entries for the competition. The program will also spotlight School Waste Management (SWM) models at the elementary level and various community garden projects. These entries will be assessed based on criteria such as sustainability, peace and order, and road accessibility.
The evaluation process places considerable emphasis on Clean and Green Governance, which accounts for 60% of the total score. Key areas include the condition of municipal nurseries, material recovery facilities (MRFs), sanitary landfills, wetlands management, and park development. Other categories, including barangay initiatives (20%), public markets (5%), transport terminals (5%), and 10-year SWM plan implementation (10%), will also be scrutinized.
₱2.65 million has been earmarked by the provincial government for awards. The first-place winner will walk away with ₱850,000, while second and third placers will receive ₱550,000 and ₱350,000, respectively. LGUs that qualify for consolation prizes will receive ₱50,000 each. In addition, Dole Philippines Inc. is sponsoring ₱60,000 for special awards in the Best Public Market and Best SWM School Model categories.
Special recognition will be given in various categories, including Best Parks and Green Space, Best Central Material Recovery Facility (CMRF), and Best Roadside Beautification, among others.
LGUs achieving first place for three consecutive years will be inducted into the prestigious Hall of Fame, with the Perpetual Trophy, currently held by Polomolok, awarded to top performers. The trophy will then be passed to future winners, ensuring a legacy of excellence.
Winners will be honored during the Provincial Ecology Day and Recyclable Waste Fair, scheduled for November 22, 2024, at the South Cotabato Gymnasium and Cultural Center in Koronadal City.
