On August 7, 2024, a collaborative effort between La Consolacion College Bacolod, the German International Cooperation (GIZ), and the local government of Bacolod City led to a successful learning visit aimed at empowering women in the informal waste sector. The event was held at Peace Pond in Barangay Enclaro, Binalbagan, Negros Occidental, with the participation of
waste workers from Barangay Felisa, LCCB representatives, and GIZ personnel.
The learning visit was designed to expose participants to innovative practices in plastic recycling and organic farming, showcasing viable alternative income streams. The waste workers of Barangay Felisa, who have been exploring ways to diversify their income sources, were the primary beneficiaries of this initiative. The visit was part of a broader research project focused on addressing plastic leakage and improving the economic conditions of women in the informal waste sector.
The day began with a journey from Bacolod City to Binalbagan, where the participants were introduced to the plastic recycling initiatives at Peace Pond. The waste workers were shown practical methods of collecting and recycling plastic bottles, with an emphasis on how these activities can be transformed into sustainable income-generating
enterprises. This was followed by a demonstration of organic farming techniques, further highlighting how waste materials can be repurposed to support agricultural productivity.
After a midday break, the group traveled to Bago City, where they observed the production of bio-waste briquettes and bricks made from glass residues. This innovative use of waste materials provided the participants with a tangible example of how recycling can contribute to both environmental sustainability and economic empowerment. The visit also included a stop at an Aling Tindera station, operated by Friends of Hope, which accepts all types of plastics in exchange for cash. The waste workers from Barangay Felisa are set to manage their own Aling Tindera station, a project facilitated by GIZ, further expanding their opportunities for income generation.
The learning visit served as a vital educational experience for the waste pickers, equipping them with
the knowledge and skills necessary to explore new entrepreneurial ventures. By exposing them to existing income-generating projects, the visit underscored the critical role they play in waste management and environmental sustainability. It also reinforced the importance of supporting the informal waste sector in their pursuit of better livelihoods.
Through this initiative, La Consolacion College Bacolod, GIZ, and the local government of Bacolod City continue to demonstrate their commitment to fostering a holistic approach to development—one that integrates education, empowerment, and economic opportunity for marginalized communities.