Reinforcing its commitment to environmental stewardship, Davao de Oro State College, through its Ecological Solid Waste Management Unit headed by Engr. Gedrick M. Baliog, led a four-day Waste Characterization Study (WACS) on October 21 to 24, 2025, at the DDOSC Main Campus.

The WACS aimed to generate a detailed analysis of the college’s waste composition and generation patterns, an essential step toward crafting data-driven strategies for waste reduction, improved segregation, and enhanced resource recovery.

The program officially opened with a welcome message from Director for Administrative Services Division Janice C. Hermosilla, who emphasized the importance of embedding sustainability practices into DDOSC’s daily operations.

“Sustainability begins with awareness and consistent action, where environmental responsibility complements academic excellence,” she emphasized.

To further fortify the initiative, officials from the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) Region XI, namely Environmental Management Officer Jesrele C. Dusol and Environmental Management Specialist John C. Naraval, delivered lectures on environmental compliance and sustainable waste management practices.

During Days 2 to 4, the EMB XI team conducted a safety orientation before the commencement of the actual WACS activity, which was carried out by the DDOSC WACS Team.

The hands-on study involved sorting and analyzing various waste streams to obtain accurate data that will serve as a baseline for future interventions.