At least 14 of the 24 garbage trucks in Zamboanga City have stopped working, which has delayed garbage collection in the city.

According to the Office of the City Environment and Natural Resources (OCENR), the trucks are still being repaired, as of this writing.

“Particularly now major breakdown is being experienced by the office but we are trying to catch up. This is just we are talking on the coverage of the city government,” OCENR Head, Engr. Reynaldo Gonzales, said.

OCENR has asked the public for understanding as garbage may not be collected immediately.

Residents are also urged to follow the schedule for garbage collection.

“We have been coordinating with the different barangays to help us especially following the schedule of setting out the garbage... There must be schedule of collection de aton (natu) starts at 6 o clock to 8 o clock in the evening ‘till dawn,” Gonzales added.

OCENR has reminded the public anew that those who will violate the Solid Waste Management Ordinance will be made to pay a fine of P200 for first offense, P500 for second offense, and P1,000 for third offense. The fine may increase for the succeeding offenses.