IPM Holdings starts operation of Iloilo sanitary landfill

MANILA, Philippines — Listed IPM Holdings Inc., through its subsidiary Basic Environmental Systems & Technologies Inc. (BEST Inc.), has commenced operations of a 10-hectare sanitary landfill in Iloilo, completed under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.

The landfill, located in Passi, Iloilo is capable of handling solid waste from 28 local government units in the third, fourth, and fifth districts of the province.

The Passi Integrated Waste Management Facility (PIWMF) is estimated to reach full capacity by 2030 based on the volume of waste generated by its LGU clients. It also accepts solid waste from other local government units within Iloilo.

A partnership between BEST and Passi City, the facility will allow LGUs to comply with the strict requirements of Republic Act 9003 or Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000.

BEST is pursuing similar sanitary landfill projects using the PPP modality in strategic areas in the Philippines. The company’s aim is to be the country’s leading local designer, builder and operator of integrated waste management facilities.

Company president and CEO Isabelita ‘Eisa’ Paredes Mercado said building the landfill using the PPP model addresses major concerns shared by all LGUs in the country.

“For one, a sanitary landfill helps safeguard the environment from pollution due to mismanaged wastes; second, it helps LGUs who lack finances and technical expertise to build and operate landfills that are fully compliant with RA 9003; and, finally, it can help relieve pressures against closure of open dumpsites and Residuals Containment Areas (RCAs), including possible prosecution of violators,” she said in a statement.

The birth of PPPs in waste management recognized the significant role of the private sector as a partner in implementing environmental and solid waste management programs, as well as accelerating the country’s infrastructure development and sustained economic growth.

“Neighboring municipalities will also have an environment-friendly disposal area thereby complying with the strict requirements of RA 9003. The clustered SLF will redound to improved public health, sanitation, and overall well-being of Iloilo residents,” said Passi Mayor Stephen Palmares.

Passi City adopted its PPP framework in 2014 and tapped Passi to be the private sector proponent following a competitive challenge process.

Article and Photo originally posted by PhilStar Global last July 19, 2021 12:00am and written by Iris Gonzales.