Transforming the barangay into a cleaner and healthier community

• Main Author: Cruz, James Vincent E.
• Format: text
• Language: English
• Published: Animo Repository 2017
• Subjects: Refuse and refuse disposal > Philippines > Manila > Santa Ana
• Online Access: https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/etd_masteral/5718
• Institution: De La Salle University

This action research project dealt with the proper waste management implementation in Barangay 886 Santa Ana, Manila which was collaboratively agreed with the members of the barangay council. Improper waste management is considered a timely issue as it poses both environmental and health problems. Said issue is reflected by the following manifestations: littering of the residents in the barangay streets, improper waste segregation as per Manila City Hall ordinance, absence of visible and larger garbage cans, and clogging of drainage and canal systems. Given the manifestations, this project aimed to provide education and to increase awareness of the residents regarding proper waste management, to heighten the awareness of the residents regarding proper waste segregation, to situate more visible garbage cans in the barangay premises and to educate the children in proper waste disposal. Overall, the goal of this project is to produce a cleaner, healthier and disciplined barangay through effective waste management implementation. In order to realize our objectives and goals, I used various methods in gathering information needed using the first-person, second-person and third-person inquiries. Using the books and academic sources I researched, the entire project was guided by the Waste Hierarchy (Oxford City Council, n.d.) and the Social Change Leadership Theory (Van Mart & Suino, 2012). Two frameworks were able to help us implement two cycles increased awareness on waste segregation and waste recycling for children. The first cycle focused on the house-to house distribution of letters to the residents of the barangay. The letter distribution aimed to inform the residents regarding waste segregation schedule and reminders to throw their garbage properly. On the other hand, the second cycle focused on educating the children through running a recycle drive and facilitating film showing on values formation. Those children who successfully completed the recycle drive report cards were rewarded and recognized. In order to reflect the change that we aimed for the community, I have decided to utilize Husseys (2000) EASIER change management framework. Said framework is composed of six steps from envisioning to recognizing the people who have participated in the change. Although there were still litters along the premises of the barangay, we were able to start making and exemplifying change in the community. The residents became more aware of proper waste management. Furthermore, the members of the barangay council now realized their important responsibility in the whole community. In fact, they became more confident and courageous in initiating activities and implementing ordinances in the community. Above all, I learned how to improve my communication and leadership skills in forming a change in the community. As what we have learned in the entire process of action research, I have expanded Husseys framework (2000) with PAR composed of participants, activities, and rewards. Said framework can be used by other barangays and communities facing the same problem that we have in waste management.