MANILA – The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) on Monday urged local government units to properly dispose of garbage as trash piled up in different localities after the holidays.

In a statement, DENR said the National Solid Waste Management Commission (NSWMC) has the power to probe and recommend the filing of administrative or criminal cases under the Solid Waste Management Act.

The Solid Waste Management Act, it said, mandates local government units to enforce their solid waste management plans.

“The NSWMC, the body tasked with ensuring compliance with RA 9003 will take appropriate action to ensure implementation of the law,” said DENR in a statement.  

“The DENR, therefore, would like to reemphasize the vital importance of effective waste management in safeguarding public health and protecting our environment on the part of the local government units,” it added.

“The Department stands ready to provide technical assistance to LGUs in order for them to fulfill their tasks and obligations,” the agency said.

NSWMC, DENR said, would “take appropriate action to ensure implementation of the law.”

Uncollected post-holiday trash causes a stink in Manila