The Office of the City Environment and Natural Resources (OCENR) deployed 10 newly purchased dump trucks, worth PHP59 million, on Wednesday to enhance garbage collection across the city.

Mayor John Dalipe led the turnover of the trucks on Tuesday afternoon at city hall following a blessing ceremony.

The 10 units are the first batch of 45 dump trucks the local government plans to acquire, with each unit costing PHP5.9 million.

“The additional 35 units will be distributed to barangays facing significant garbage collection challenges,” Dalipe said.

Engineer Rey Gonzales, OCENR chief, said the new trucks will operate within the city’s barangays, replacing several faulty garbage trucks and improving waste management efficiency.

This is the city government’s second major equipment purchase this year, following the acquisition of six farm tractors worth PHP19.2 million to boost agricultural productivity.

On Monday, Dalipe also led the turnover of the farm tractors to the Office of the City Agriculturist, which will oversee their use.

The investments reflect the city’s commitment to improving public services and addressing critical infrastructure needs. (PNA)