BACOLOD City — The Bacolod City Government has requested the Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) to investigate individuals allegedly involved in illegal dumping at the city’s Reclamation Area following the submission of video footage directly to Mayor Greg Gasataya by a concerned citizen.
The report included a video taken on May 7, 2026, showing an alleged illegal dumping activity involving an Isuzu Elf truck bearing plate number CBB 1386.
Mayor Gasataya expressed disappointment over the incident, especially as the city continues to intensify its environmental programs and awareness campaigns across all 61 barangays.
“Ginakasubo guid naton nga sa pihak sang aton mga ginahimo nga tikang, may ara guid ta mga kauturan nga daw wala sang pasunaid sa aton palibot kag sa tanan nga pumuluyo nga gakaapektuhan sini,” the mayor said.
The mayor confirmed that the matter has already been referred to the BCPO, which is now locating the individuals responsible for the alleged illegal activity.
The city government has also coordinated with the Land Transportation Office (LTO) to identify the registered owner of the vehicle used in the incident.
Gasataya commended the concerned citizen who reported the incident and encouraged the public to continue cooperating with authorities.
“We commend the courage and vigilance of residents who report these incidents. We encourage everyone not to be afraid to report illegal dumping. We will make sure that those responsible are held accountable,” the mayor added.
The investigation comes as Bacolod enters the second day of its two-day orientation and seminar for deputized Barangay Environmental Officers, an initiative aimed at strengthening enforcement against illegal waste disposal and improving environmental protection in communities.
As part of the city’s intensified environmental campaign, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources–Environmental Management Bureau Negros Island Region (DENR-EMB NIR), in partnership with the Bacolod Environment and Natural Resources Office (BENRO), conducted a two-day reorientation seminar on Republic Act 9003, or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000, on May 6 and 7, 2026.
The seminar highlighted the critical role of barangays in implementing environmental laws, waste segregation, and anti-illegal dumping initiatives.
Barangay officials also pledged support for the creation of an environmental task force that will help enforce local ordinances and national environmental laws.
Mayor Gasataya emphasized that the city expects tighter monitoring and stronger enforcement from barangay-based environmental officers once they are fully deputized and trained.
The strengthened Solid Waste Management Program is expected to bring several benefits, including cleaner and safer communities, reduced illegal dumping, improved environmental protection, stronger enforcement of waste management laws, closer coordination between barangays and the city government, increased public awareness and participation, and healthier surroundings for residents./PN
