EcoWaste Coalition leads a Zero-Waste Christmas celebration in Intramuros, Manila
14 December 2024. Intramuros, Manila. As part of its campaign for a zero waste and toxics-free Christmas, the EcoWaste Coalition, in partnership with Barangays 655 and 657, and Intramuros Administration, hosted Christmas Saya kapag Walang Aksaya—an event aimed to inspire sustainable holiday practices and strengthen community bonds through creative and meaningful activities.
This year’s theme, “Mas masayang pagdiriwang sa kapaskuhan ang walang aksayang pamumuhay,” encouraged participants to embrace the joy of a zero-waste Christmas. Activities included a parol-making contest, where participants crafted Christmas lanterns using natural and reusable materials. Open to individuals and groups, this competition highlighted the importance of resourcefulness while showcasing the community’s creativity.
Another exciting highlight is the jingle-making contest where participants composed and performed songs advocating for a “Walang Aksaya” Christmas celebration. Through the power of music, these performances spread awareness about the importance of reducing waste, especially during the holiday season.
The event also featured do-it-yourself (DIY) holiday decorations utilizing an array of common discarded materials, including egg cartons, electronic waste (e-waste), fabric scraps, glass and plastic bottles, personal care containers, tin cans, and more.
Throughout the program, the participants also learned practical zero-waste tips and reminders, empowering them to make sustainable choices in their holiday celebration. By promoting these practices, the event aimed to inspire a long-lasting commitment to environmental responsibility within the community.
Also present to show their support were representatives from the Department of Public Services, the Barangay Council members, Sangguniang Kabataan (SK), and residents of the participating barangays.
“This event shows that we can celebrate the joy of Christmas without harming the environment. By turning simple materials into something beautiful, such as parols and other holiday ornaments, or by composing songs that remind us to reduce waste, we are taking small but meaningful steps toward a sustainable lifestyle,” said Aileen Lucero, National Coordinator of EcoWaste Coalition. “We hope that this celebration inspires more communities to embrace zero waste and toxics-free practices as part of their holiday traditions.”
By uniting in this initiative, the Intramuros community demonstrates that traditions can evolve to reflect care for the planet while preserving the essence of the holiday spirit. Christmas Saya kapag Walang Aksaya is more than just an event—it is a call to action to celebrate the season with joy, creativity, and a shared commitment to a more sustainable future.
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