Ihra Janine Derial:
Strengthening Community Partnerships for Long-Lasting Impact

As part of our "Voices of Circular Economy" series, Eco Kolek is proud to introduce Ihra Janine Derial, a Licensed Social Worker, as our new Community Liaison Officer. Ihra plays a critical role in bridging the gap between Eco Kolek and local communities, ensuring that our waste management initiatives are well-aligned with local policies and have a lasting, positive impact.

"Strengthening our relationship with the Barangay and local government is essential to institutionalizing the progress we have made on the ground. I work to align our project goals with local policies to ensure that our environmental impact is both legal and long-lasting," Ihra explains.

Key Role in Community Engagement and Record Keeping

As Community Liaison Officer, Ihra is responsible for maintaining accurate and updated community records related to Eco Kolek’s waste collection efforts. By ensuring that the data is well-organized, she helps provide the team with the insights they need to monitor progress, track improvements, and identify areas of focus. Her role is vital in keeping all stakeholders, from local residents to government officials, informed and engaged in the project’s success.

In addition to record-keeping, Ihra serves as the primary point of contact between Eco Kolek and local government units (LGUs). She actively engages with Barangay officials and local leaders to ensure that Eco Kolek’s initiatives are aligned with local policies, particularly those focused on waste management and environmental sustainability.

Aligning with Local Policies for Sustainable Impact

Ihra’s work focuses not only on effective communication but also on aligning Eco Kolek’s goals with the policies and priorities of the local governments. By doing so, she helps ensure that Eco Kolek’s waste management efforts are legally compliant and sustainable in the long run. She works closely with local officials to understand their needs and integrates those insights into the design and implementation of Eco Kolek’s programs.

"I believe that working closely with local leaders and officials is key to ensuring that our work continues beyond the project’s duration. If we align our goals with their policies, we can guarantee that our efforts will be sustainable and impactful for years to come," Ihra adds.

This collaboration with local governments is essential for institutionalizing the environmental progress Eco Kolek aims to make in the communities it serves. Through strong partnerships and policy alignment, Ihra ensures that the organization’s impact extends beyond immediate projects and becomes ingrained in local practices.

Driving Lasting Change Through Community Relationships

Ihra is also committed to fostering trust and open communication between Eco Kolek and the communities. By keeping local residents and stakeholders informed, she ensures that Eco Kolek’s efforts are not only welcomed but actively supported. Her work helps build community ownership over the projects, creating an environment where residents feel empowered to participate in waste management practices.

Her role in community engagement is essential for the success of Eco Kolek’s mission to promote sustainable waste management and circular economy principles. Ihra’s dedication to clear communication, strong partnerships, and strategic alignment with local policies ensures that Eco Kolek’s work has long-lasting impact on the communities it touches.

Looking Ahead

With Ihra’s expertise in community relations and policy alignment, Eco Kolek is well-positioned to continue expanding its projects in Puerto Princesa and beyond. Her contributions are key to ensuring that our waste recovery and environmental education efforts are both effective and sustainable, providing a foundation for future success.