The City Government of Isabela, under the leadership of Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman, continues its commitment to environmental sustainability and community empowerment with the launch of Project Zero: Zero Waste, Zero Chemicals, Zero Hunger on February 20. The initiative, spearheaded by the City General Services Office (CGSO) and led by CGS Officer Eugene Strong, aims to promote organic farming and responsible waste management, particularly among women.
Tabuk Punong Barangay Hja. Eyam Ajibon welcomed participants, setting the tone for an engaging and educational gathering. Community Affairs Associate Anna Sahibil, who leads the project, provided an overview of its objectives, emphasizing waste reduction, chemical-free farming, and self-sufficiency through organic composting.
A session on the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act (RA 9003) was conducted by Public Services Officer II Saddam Lagoyo, highlighting the importance of proper waste disposal and recycling. To give participants a firsthand look at sustainable practices, an educational field trip to Sitio Lantung, Barangay Baluno showcased the Environmental Best Practices implemented by the City Government.
Recognizing the link between sustainability and economic empowerment, Al-Hazim Malon, PESO Livelihood Focal, led a session on Basic Financial Literacy, equipping women with skills to manage their resources effectively. This was followed by a discussion on organic farming, facilitated by Agriculture Technologist Jonathan Pedillon, who emphasized the benefits of natural fertilizers and pesticide-free cultivation.
As a major step in the program’s implementation, the formal turnover of a compost facility and essential materials was conducted, ensuring that the women of Barangay Tabuk have the tools necessary to practice sustainable agriculture. This initiative provides them with organic compost to support their farming activities, fostering self-sufficiency and environmental responsibility.
Mayor Turabin-Hataman expressed her strong support for the program, recognizing the women of Barangay Tabuk as key drivers of change in their community. A Message of Commitment from barangay leadership and beneficiaries further strengthened their pledge to uphold sustainable practices. The event concluded with a Pledge of Commitment, led by City Information Officer and concurrent GAD Focal Mendry Ann-Lim, symbolizing the collective effort to build a greener, healthier future for Isabela City.
The project is funded through the 5% Gender and Development (GAD) fund, which is allocated from the city’s Annual Budget in compliance with the Magna Carta of Women (RA 9710). Also present during the event were District 1 Board Member Ahmed Ibn Djaliv Hataman and City Councilor Ar-Jhemar Ajibon. (Words by E. Banding-Hadjala/Photos by J. Segovia, IsaTV)
