SWM Remedial Classes Rolled Out for Eco Warriors in Barangay Jacana

Puerto Princesa City, Palawan – Project Zacchaeus (PZC), through its Eco Kolek initiative in partnership with USAID’s Clean Cities, Blue Ocean (CCBO) program, has introduced remedial learning sessions on Solid Waste Management (SWM) for its Eco-Warriors, composed of informal waste collectors (IWCs) from Barangay Jacana.

The weekly classes are designed to equip Eco-Warriors with the technical knowledge and practical skills necessary for their crucial role in the city’s waste management system. The training covers topics such as proper waste segregation, handling of recyclables, safety protocols, and community engagement techniques. These sessions form part of Project Zacch’s broader mission to empower waste collectors, transforming them into community leaders and advocates of environmental responsibility.

However, organizers noticed a challenge: because many Eco-Warriors balance their time between collection work and household responsibilities, attendance at the weekly sessions has not always been consistent. To address this, the Project Zacch team developed an iterative teaching approach—allowing those who miss classes to catch up through remedial sessions conducted voluntarily by the Eco Kolek trainers.

“Learning does not stop when you miss a session. We want our Eco-Warriors to feel that education is always available for them, and that they can grow at their own pace,” said Brian Agustin, Operations Officer of Eco Kolek.

The remedial classes have proven to be effective in encouraging the Eco-Warriors to stay engaged despite their busy schedules. Trainers also incorporate interactive discussions and real-life applications, making the learning process fun and meaningful.

According to Project Zacch, the effort is more than just training—it is about building a culture of care and continuous learning within the Eco Kolek community. “Our team has developed a deeper sense of love and compassion for the Eco-Warriors. We are not just teaching them skills; we are journeying with them towards dignity, empowerment, and sustainable livelihoods,” the team noted in a statement.

With the ongoing partnership between Project Zacch, Eco Kolek, and USAID, the program envisions not only improved waste collection practices but also a brighter future for informal waste collectors, who play an indispensable role in keeping Puerto Princesa clean and resilient.