Giant ‘fish’ trash bins installed in La Union for proper waste disposal

CREATIVE RECEPTACLE Environmental sustainability and creativity converge in La Union, where the provincial government installed giant trash bins in key tourist destinations, such as this one along the Urbiztondo beach in San Juan town. These receptacles not only fire the imagination but also promote environmental awareness among tourists and locals. —La Union Provincial Government

LAOAG CITY, ILOCOS NORTE, Philippines — Giant trash bins shaped like fish have been installed in key areas across La Union province as part of a creative initiative to instill environmental consciousness among tourists and locals.

The provincial government announced on Sunday that these bins are part of their efforts to keep the province free from trash.

The receptacles serve a dual purpose, as they are also considered art installations shaped like giant fish, symbolizing the rich marine biodiversity in the province. They come with signage encouraging individuals to dispose of their empty drink bottles and other recyclables properly.

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The trash bins have been installed in popular tourist areas across the province, including the Urbiztondo surfing area in San Juan, Bilagan Road in Santol, Baluarte Watchtower in Luna, Immuki Island in Balaoan, San Carlos beach in Caba and Agoo Eco Park.

The trash bins were placed in these areas not only to encourage visitors to dispose of their trash properly but also to highlight the province’s commitment to environmental sustainability, said Gov. Raphaelle Veronica Ortega-David in a statement on Sunday.

Since the installation of the trash bins in December last year, these high-traffic areas have remained clean and orderly, even during times when there were fewer visitors, according to Annalyn Valdez, the provincial environment and natural resources officer, in a separate statement on Sunday.