With the anticipated effects of La Niña expected in August 2024, the Naga City Solid Waste Management Office (SWMO) is intensifying efforts to clear clogged drainage systems, revealing cooking oil as a major culprit.

Engr. Joel Martin, head of the SWMO, highlighted that many households are disposing of cooking oil improperly. The oil that accumulated in the drainage systems solidifies and blocks the flow. 

“Diyan sa may household communities, may mga nagtaragas na cooking oils. Ang nangyayari po kaya, pig-uula ang mga cooking oil sa mga drainage. Diyan sa drainage sa irarom, malipot po diyan,” Martin said.

The declogging team has identified two types of hardened oil clogging the drains: a floating white substance and a more problematic, cement-like substance that significantly hampers water flow.

“Magkaigwa man po sinda ning… isuway ninda itong mga sagmaw ta iyo po ito ang piggigikanan kang mga sebo, itong grey saka white,” Carlos Cambe Jr., a Metro Aide II at Naga City SWMO, said.

Residents like Diane Agravante, a dishwasher and cook, understand the importance of proper waste disposal. 

“Pinaghihiwalay mi lang po ‘yung mga tira-tirang pagkain, tulad ng mga buto at gulay kasi may nakuha man dito ‘yung pang[pakain] na sa aso,” Agravante said.

The SWMO urged barangays and residents to help maintain cleanliness and prevent drainage blockages by practicing proper waste segregation and responsible disposal of garbage.