From Campaign Tarps to Eco Bags: Ozamiz City Transforms Waste into Everyday Solutions

By: Bhal Abad Cabrerra

OZAMIZ CITY, Misamis Occidental — What was once considered campaign waste is now being repurposed into practical, eco-friendly products. In a unique waste-to-resource initiative, the Solid Waste and Environment Management Office (SWEMO) of Ozamiz City has begun transforming used tarpaulins—particularly from the Asenso Pinoy Partylist—into durable and reusable eco bags.

This innovative project, launched under the leadership of the Asenso Ozamiz Administration led by Ozamiz City Mayor Atty. Indy Oaminal, highlights a progressive approach to environmental management by focusing on the re-use and re-engineering of waste materials. Rather than letting political tarpaulins pile up in dumpsites or contribute to visual pollution, the city government saw an opportunity to give them new life and purpose.

The tarpaulins are collected, cleaned, cut, and meticulously sewn by the SWEMO team into sturdy shopping bags. Each eco bag, crafted by local personnel, showcases the city’s creativity and commitment to sustainability. The production takes place within the SWEMO facility, where these upcycled bags are handmade with care and precision.

The finished eco bags were formally turned over to the office of City Councilor Cecile Yu Co, where they will be utilized and distributed to support ongoing community-based environmental programs.

This turnover signifies the administration’s intent to integrate sustainability not only in policy but also in practical service delivery. By turning campaign materials into something useful, Ozamiz City sends a powerful message: waste doesn’t have to be wasted.

The eco bag initiative not only reduces plastic use and waste volume, but also promotes a culture of environmental responsibility and ingenuity among residents. This project is part of a growing list of green initiatives under the Asenso Ozamiz Administration, reinforcing the city’s goal of building a cleaner, greener, and more resourceful Ozamiz.