Pateros: The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) on Thursday expanded its soft launch of the 'Yes to Ayos' public discipline campaign in the municipality of Pateros. In his speech at Pateros Elementary School, Presidential Broadcast Staff-Radio Television Malaca±ang (PBS-RTVM) Undersecretary Franz Gerard Imperial said the event brought together partners from the private and public sectors to support President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s order to foster a culture of discipline and accountability among Filipinos.
According to Philippines News Agency, MMDA deputy chairman Undersecretary Frisco San Juan Jr. introduced new partners to the project that would help amplify the campaign's reach - radio station 101.1 YES! FM and environmental partners Mother Earth Foundation (MEF) and the EcoWaste Coalition. While YES! FM has committed to help with public information, MEF is advocating for the 'Turo and Tingi' project that seeks to move sari-sari stores from single-use sachets towards refillable product stations. On the other hand, the EcoWaste Coalition advocates for an eco-friendly, zero-waste, and toxic-free Philippines by eliminating single-use plastics and promoting sustainable reuse and refill systems.
In addition, the MMDA featured Yes to Ayos mascot 'Lola Daisy Plina' and her promotion of the 4Rs: refuse, reduce, reuse, recycle. Lola Daisy Plina also promoted the 'Eco TINGIndahan,' which features a refilling station for products that promote sustainable waste management practices. Through the TINGIndahan, residents can refill their containers with products such as condiments and rice using points earned from exchanging recyclables. 'Ang tunay na pagbabago ay nagsisimula hindi lamang sa malalaking proyekto, kundi sa simpleng disiplina na ating isinasabuhay araw-araw (Real change not only starts from big projects, but also from simple disciplined behavior that we can enact daily),' San Juan said.
These simple actions, he said, include proper disposal of garbage, following traffic laws, respecting others, taking care of the environment, and being responsible in public places. The event concluded with a formal pledge of commitment led by MMDA General Manager Nicolas Torre III, national and local government officials, barangay representatives, along with private and non-governmental partners. The pledge is a commitment to embrace personal discipline, excellence, proper behavior, and a shared responsibility for national development.
