The Effect of Installed Trash Traps within the Province of Cavite Under the MBRP for Years 2021-2023: A Baseline Study
Author: Maybelle Kristine N. Rodriguez, Marie Belle A. Igmat
Country: Philippines
Volume & Issue: Volume 1, Issue 1, April 2026 - June 2026
Page No.: 1-13
DOI.: https://doi.org/10.63941/eupij.2026.1.1.01
Publication Date: April 30, 2026
Abstract:
The uncontrolled generation of solid waste that drains through the waterways of the Province of Cavite into Manila Bay poses a serious environmental threat to the bay's natural environment and biodiversity. In response to the Supreme Court's Writ of Continuing Mandamus under G.R. No. 171947-48, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (DENR–PENRO) Cavite, through the Manila Bay Site Coordinating/Management Office (MBSCMO) Cavite, installed 49 trash traps strategically positioned along the six major river systems of the province as part of the Manila Bay Rehabilitation Program (MBRP). This baseline study employed a mixed-methods research design using the nested (embedded) approach, with data analyzed through the percentage method. Monitoring was conducted over three years (2021–2023). Results revealed that, on average, 66% of installed units were functional while 34% were non-functional across the monitoring period. Despite this, the installed units collectively captured a total of 2,037,227 kilograms (approximately 2,005.1 metric tons) of mixed solid wastes. Waste collection increased by 72% from 2021 to 2022 (669,091 kg to 928,754 kg), partly attributed to COVID-19-related healthcare waste. A notable decrease of -211% was recorded in 2023 (as of the 3rd quarter), reflecting positive outcomes from intensified Communication, Education and Public Awareness (CEPA) campaigns, establishment of barangay ecological gardens, and other solid waste management interventions. The study concludes that trash traps are effective solid waste interception mechanisms and recommends their turnover to respective Local Government Units (LGUs) through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) and the replication of the project in applicable waterways.
Keywords:
Trash Traps, Manila Bay Rehabilitation Program, Solid Waste Management, DENR–PENRO Cavite, Waterway Pollution, River Rangers, MBRP, Environmental Baseline Study
