By CHRIS V. PANGANIBAN
SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur — An appliance company currently constructing a store in the heart of San Francisco landed in hot water Friday morning after its garbage was found illegally dumped along the national highway—just as the province’s massive clean-up drive kicked off in preparation for the much-anticipated Palarong Pambansa 2026.
The incident came as a shock during a province-wide initiative aimed at ensuring a pristine environment for the upcoming national sporting event, which will bring thousands of athletes, coaches, and spectators to the area.
Some of the garbage was left in front of the Municipal Health Office where ongoing construction is underway raised questions about the company’s disregard for environmental responsibility.
Rommel Enguito, Barangay Pisaan’s village chair and town council member, wasted no time in condemning LYR Marketing Corporation for its actions. “This is a blatant violation of the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act,” he said, referencing Republic Act 9003, which mandates proper waste disposal and imposes severe penalties on violators.
Although LYR Marketing Corporation has yet to issue an official statement, Mayor Grace Carmel Paredes-Bravo told Enguito that the company’s driver, Jaime Alejado Jr., has been formally charged at the Provincial Prosecutor’s Office.
Enguito explained that under Section 49 of the ESWM law, Alejado could face fines ranging from P10,000 to P200,000 or up to 30 days in jail. Alejado reportedly admitted to the unlawful disposal and assured authorities that the company is willing to settle the fines.
The San Francisco Municipal Police Station has impounded the truck involved in the illegal dumping, which will remain in custody until the legal process is completed.
Authorities tracked the garbage back to LYR Marketing Corporation after finding a receipt with the company’s name, tying them directly to the violation.
As the clean-up drive continues, Agusan del Sur remains focused on presenting a clean and safe environment to welcome visitors for Palarong Pambansa 2026.
In response to the growing need for action, Governor Santiago B. Cane Jr. issued Executive Order No. 18 Series of 2026, which sets the next clean-up initiative for April 24, 2026, at 7:00 a.m. The province-wide event will target national highways, provincial roads, municipal areas, and key public spaces, including playing venues and athlete billeting quarters.
The goal is clear: ensure Agusan del Sur is prepared to showcase the best of its beauty and hospitality while maintaining environmental standards for the arrival of thousands of guests.
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