The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is calling on local governments and the public to take urgent action in recycling and reusing campaign materials left behind after Monday’s midterm elections.

Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga has instructed the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) and its regional offices to lead a nationwide clean-up drive and recovery efforts targeting plastic posters, tarpaulins, and other campaign paraphernalia.

“By repurposing campaign materials, we protect biodiversity in our lands and our oceans, while at the same time creating economic opportunities and fostering household uses that benefit our communities,” she said.

Loyzaga said these materials, if not properly managed, would end up polluting waterways and degrading landscapes, leading to increased pollution, habitat destruction, and a decline in biodiversity.

She called on the public to actively participate in post-election clean-up activities by collecting campaign materials and bringing them to designated drop-off points.

“After all, being responsible stewards of the environment demonstrates our love for our nation and our commitment to a brighter future for all Filipinos,” she said.

The DENR is working in partnership with Green Convergence, a multi-sectoral coalition for sustainable development, and with other civic organizations to promote proper recycling and upcycling of campaign waste.

To operationalize the initiative, DENR Assistant Secretary and EMB Director Jacqueline Caancan has ordered regional offices to coordinate with local government units in organizing drop-off points, disseminating recycling information, and tracking the volume of collected materials.

Loyzaga said the initiatives not only aim to alleviate the environmental impacts associated with discarded campaign materials but also seek to enhance community responsibility among Filipino citizens. (PNA)