CAGAYAN | March 11, 2024 – In an effort to uphold the agency’s commitment to continuous learning and improvement, five (5) personnel from the FPA Cagayan Valley completed a 40-hour basic training for Pollution Control Officers (PCO’s) via zoom on February 16-20, 2024.

The training was facilitated by SAGE Environmental Consultancy Inc., an accredited training agency under the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB). It consisted of topics such as pollution control and hazardous waste management aimed to equip participants with the necessary skills for proper waste disposal and handling of toxic chemicals.

PCO’s play a crucial role in ensuring that businesses comply with environmental regulations, particularly those related to air, water, and soil pollution. As mandated by various laws including the Philippine Clean Air Act of 1999, the Philippine Clean Water Act of 2004, the Solid Waste Management Act of 2003, and the Toxic Substances and Hazardous and Nuclear Waste Control Act of 1990, establishments emitting environmental contaminants are required to have certified PCOs overseeing their operations.

During the training, participants were briefed on the regulations outlined in these laws, as well as the procedures for obtaining permits for waste discharges and the associated requirements.

“Napakarami naming natutunan lalong lalo na tungkol sa disposal ng hazardous chemicals. Hindi pala basta-basta iniimbak at tinatapon kailangan pala ng permit kahit yung magtatapon at maghahandle”, said Mr. Henry C. Cayaban, Jr., PO, of Cagayan after passing the post examination.

He added that such training enabled them as field personnel to be knowlegeable on the proper handling of toxic chemicals such as pesticides, fertilizers, veterinary medicines, and other agricultural chemicals. Mishandling these substances can have serious health and environmental consequences, underscoring the importance of proper training and adherence to best practices.

Also attending the training were FPA Provincial Officers Mr. Noel A. Baliuag, Jr., Mr. Robert V. Salvador, and Mr. Rheymark Credo. Meanwhile, Mr. Leonardo A. Bangad, a Regional Officer, participated in a one-day training session for managing heads, which is a prerequisite for PCO accreditation. ###

  Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) Online ISSN: 2815-1674
  Published by the FPA Information and Communications Team