Project Zacchaeus Certifies New Cohort of Eco Warriors in Puerto Princesa

Project Zacchaeus (PZC) formally certified 32 new Eco Warriors during its 3rd Completion Ceremony held on December 12, 2025. The event marked the conclusion of a two-month capacity-building program designed to professionalize informal waste collectors and integrate them into the city’s circular economy initiatives.

The ceremony recognized the participants' completion of technical and leadership training, officially designating them as certified Eco Warriors. This status validates their role as community-based leaders in sustainable waste management and plastic pollution reduction.

Partnership and Institutional Support

The event underscored the multi-sectoral collaboration driving the Eco-Kolek program. Key attendees included representatives from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (City ENRO), and the Barangay Local Government Unit (BLGU) of Sicsican.

During the ceremony, PZC Program Director Shellemai Roa and Finance Chief Jofer Arroyo executed a ceremonial Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing with Barangay Sicsican officials, represented by Kagawad Rhoy Dalumpines and Kagawad Velly Vanne Somosierra. This agreement solidifies the local government's commitment to supporting the Eco-Kolek initiative.

Strengthening Organizational Structure

In addition to the individual certifications, the event featured the oath-taking of the newly elected officers of the Samahang Mangangalakal ng Puerto Princesa (SMPP), the formal workers' association for the Eco Warriors. This organizational development aims to provide a unified voice for the waste workers and facilitate their access to social protection and livelihood opportunities.

The certification of this new cohort expands PZC's operational capacity to address plastic pollution through inclusive, community-led solutions, reinforcing Puerto Princesa’s position as a leader in environmental sustainability.