Lydia Casiano: From Waste Picker to Empowered Eco-Warrior Leader

Meet Lydia Casiano, a dedicated mother, wife, and resident of a small community in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan. Every day, she rises before dawn to manage her family, run their small store, and execute the essential mission that defines her: collecting and selling recyclable waste. Lydia is one of the many determined individuals who have embraced the mantle of Eco-Warrior.

Lydia's journey into material recovery began out of necessity. With her husband as the sole breadwinner for their growing family, she sought a way to supplement their income, initially collecting scrap metals. When the market for plastics emerged, she quickly transitioned, realizing the higher value they held. For Lydia, the work is a direct response to the challenge of poverty—a commitment she approaches with the fierce belief that being physically fit and continuously executing her responsibilities is essential to success.

A Leader of Change

Lydia is not just an individual collector; she is a leader. As a devoted mother and wife, she also heads the local community group, Samahan ng mga Mamamaya ng Jacana (SMJ). She successfully navigates the challenge of juggling these roles while constantly inspiring others to value cleanliness and environmental stewardship.

Her personal environmental awareness began young. Since she was 14, Lydia was troubled by the sight of scattered litter, overflowing bins, and plastic polluting her city. Feeling a sense of shame over the mess, she was spurred to participate in the small, yet profound, task of gathering and selling plastics to help clean her home.

Elevating the Profession

Through her dedicated work, Lydia has become a witness to change. She has seen the environment of her community improve dramatically, as residents have developed a greater sense of responsibility. Where there was once total chaos and carelessness, today, the community has embraced cleaner surroundings, and citizens who carelessly litter are held accountable.

Lydia’s loudest message is about dignity and economic opportunity. She wants her community to understand that waste collectors are not the poorest members of society. She firmly believes that if an Eco-Warrior is truly serious about this profession, they can earn enough for their family to live comfortably and meet their needs. Personally, her greatest hope is for her children to finish their studies, learn the value of cleanliness, and stay healthy.

Empowerment through Eco Kolek

The support and training provided by the Eco Kolek program have been a powerful force in Lydia’s transformation. She is enthusiastic about the capacity-building—particularly the lectures on Servant Leadership, which have enhanced her knowledge and her ability to perform her job effectively. The training has instilled confidence by teaching her how to accurately classify and manage different waste streams.

For Lydia, the SMJ community means everything; she knows she cannot accomplish her dreams for her community alone. She remains an inspiring figure—a living reminder that dedication to family, community, and the environment transforms both the individual and the world around them.