The Muntinlupa City government celebrated the “Araw ng Kalikasan (Environment Day)” on Nov. 22 with milestones in energy efficiency and conservation.
Mayor Ruffy Biazon led the celebration, which is now on its fourth year since its was established in 2019.
A highlight of this year's celebration was the ceremonial turnover of Muntinlupa City's Local Energy Efficiency and Conservation Plan (LEECP) crafted by the technical working group from the city government and the Philippine League of Local Environment and Natural Resources Officers (PLLENRO) led by Executive Director Danilo Villas.
"On this occasion, I can say that Muntinlupa is the first city in the National Capital Region and second in the country to have its own Local Energy Code," said Villas.
The LEECP institutionalized the city's plans, programs, and overall strategy for energy efficiency and conservation. As a highly-urbanized city, the Energy Code will help guide Muntinlupa's leadership in implementing policies for the efficient and sustainable use of power and fuel.
In his State of the Environment Address, Biazon shared the accomplishments of the city government in environmental management, energy efficiency and conservation, and climate change.
These included the Eco Grocer program at the City Hall, which offers refillable toiletries and bath products to cut down on plastic waste, and the partnership with Plastic Flamingo, which has seen the conversion of more than 121,000 kgs or 133 tons of residual plastic waste into chairs, bricks, or plastic lumber.
Muntinlupa's local version of the "Earth Day" initiative aims to increase public awareness and challenge multi-sectoral participation in the local government's environmental initiatives.
The annual observance was established by virtue of Sangguniang Panlungsod Resolution No. 19-131 which designates November 22 of every year as "Araw ng Kalikasan 1122" in the city.