Emma D. Aspiras | Roselle M. Soriano | Ariel A. Lagunilla | Myrna G. Fontanilla | Edwin G. Antonio
Solid waste management is one of the serious environmental problems confronting developing countries. The primary purpose of this study is to determine the involvement of Quirino residents and visitors in the Solid Waste Management (SWM) programs of the province. This study used the quantitativequalitative approach utilizing a descriptive research design. A survey questionnaire was employed in gathering data on the profile of respondents and in the collection of solid wastes. Also, face-to-face interviews, observation, and documentation were utilized in identifying SWM practices and problems. The phenomenological strategy was used in gathering qualitative inquiry. Participants of the study were vendors, viewers, riders, and visitors during the 2019 Quirino Motorismo Festival. All business establishments around the area were also considered, and the random sampling method was applied in identifying participants. Additionally, frequency and percent were used in the quantitative data tabulation, and thematic analysis was used to analyze the qualitative data gathered. The ethical protocol was observed during the conduct of the study. Practices on solid waste management were as follows: source-reduce waste, recycle wastes, repair and reuse wastes, sellable market wastes, segregation of wastes, no burning of wastes, and participation in community clean-up activities. Current problems on solid waste management were as follows: irregular schedule of garbage collection, inadequate transport facility for waste collection, disposing biodegradable wastes within resident’s compound, decomposed waste is not properly used as fertilizer, limited utilization of recycling activities, SWM programs were not fully enforced in the barangay level; and limited dissemination of public awareness and information campaign of the impact of the proper solid waste management in the barangay level.