In line with the launching of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) of the “Barangay at Kalinisan Day (BarKaDa) and in observance of the International Coastal Clean-Up Day, DILG Region 6 regional, provincial and city offices together with the Department’s partners and stakeholders, local government units, academe and other national government agencies simultaneously conducted a clean-up day on September 16, 2023.

The launching of BarKada with the theme, “Buhayin ang Diwa ng Bayanihan: Mag-volunteer Tayong Lahat para sa Kalikasan,” is a nationwide community-based clean up drive program anchored on a culture of bayanihan that aims to maintain and provide a healthy and safe environment for the people through proper solid waste management.

DILG Regional Director Juan Jovian E. Ingeniero participated in the clean-up drive held in Barangay Calumpang, Iloilo City and highlighted in his message that the gathering of communities and organizations for a clean-up is a testament of a shared commitment.

According to the regional director, making the neighborhood a cleaner, greener, and more vibrant place to live is a reflection of dedication to the well-being of the community.

“Today is not just about picking up litter; it’s about investing in the place we call home, creating a legacy of care, and inspiring others to join the cause. Every piece of trash we collect today is a step toward a more beautiful, sustainable, and close-knit community.” Ingeniero said.

Joining DILG Regional Office and DILG Iloilo City in the clean-up at the coastal area of Barangay Calumpang, Iloilo City were the local government of Iloilo City and Barangay Calumpang, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP 6), Police Regional Office 6 (PRO 6), Bureau of Fire and Protection (BFP 6), and the universities in Iloilo City.

It is expected that through this program, there will be BarKaDa in every barangays in ensuring that clean-up drives will be conducted on a regular basis. Thereby, all will live in a community that foster a strong sense of pride and unity and promote environmental awareness and responsible citizenship.###