The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and the Junior Chamber International (JCI) Manila formalized their partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement [MOA] for the implementation of Project Hiraya: Turning Waste into Worth, Creating Futures – an innovative environmental and social development initiative aimed at transforming plastic waste into meaningful opportunities for communities across Metro Manila.
MMDA Chairman Atty. Don Artes expressed his gratitude to JCI-Manila for launching Project Hiraya which highlights effective collaboration between government and civic organizations to address environmental issues through volunteerism, community engagement, and responsible waste management.
“This partnership also aligns closely with MMDA programs such as Bayanihan sa Estero and the Yes to Ayos campaign, both of which promote environmental stewardship, cleanliness, and collective action.”
“We commend JCI-Manila for its dedication to creating lasting positive impacts in our communities. This partnership also aligns closely with MMDA programs such as Bayanihan sa Estero and the Yes to Ayos campaign, both of which promote environmental stewardship, cleanliness, and collective action,” Artes said during the MOA signing.
“Through this collaboration, we can raise greater public awareness about proper waste management and inspire more citizens to take an active role in protecting the environment. It’s a shared commitment to building cleaner communities, healthier waterways, and a more sustainable future,” he added.
Under the agreement, the MMDA shall identify and recommend suitable barangays, waterways, open spaces, and other priority areas within Metro Manila for the conduct of land-based and water-based cleanup drive activities under the project.
On the other hand, JCI-Manila shall engage Plastic Flamingo (PLAF), as its recycling partner, to process the collected plastic waste and convert it into durable school furniture, like school chairs and tables, for beneficiary public schools.
Meanwhile, JCI-Manila President Edison Ke emphasized that Project Hiraya is more than a clean-up initiative but a commitment to collective action, environmental stewardship, and creating positive change for the communities.
“We are transforming plastic waste into valuable resources while promoting environmental responsibility and community engagement.”
“Through the collaboration of JCI-Manila and MMDA, we are transforming plastic waste into valuable resources while promoting environmental responsibility and community engagement. It’s our shared commitment to turning waste into worth and creating better opportunities for future generations,” Ke explained.
BJC Project Hiraya Chairman Leeroy Livias Shoko said that they are honored to partner with the MMDA and JIC-Manila to turn recyclable waste into durable school chairs and tables, as this collaboration supports both environmental responsibility and education by reducing waste while providing essential learning furniture to schools and communities in need.
Project Hiraya originated from a proposal by JCI-Manila to collaborate with the MMDA to integrate community clean-up activities, responsible waste management practices, and social impact initiatives.
The project seeks to address pressing environmental concerns while creating tangible benefits for public schools and local communities.
