Theoretical Framework

In examining the implementation of R.A. 9003, also known as the Solid Waste

Management Act of 2000, in Tandag City, a comprehensive theoretical framework is

essential to elucidate the multifaceted dynamics shaping waste management practices.

Drawing upon a synthesis of local and foreign theories, this research seeks to analyze

the intricate interplay of socio-political, cultural, economic, and environmental factors

influencing the adoption and execution of waste management policies at the local level.

Grounded in the context of Tandag City's unique institutional landscape and socio-

economic dynamics, this theoretical framework integrates insights from both indigenous

Filipino concepts and international scholarship to provide a holistic understanding of the

challenges and opportunities inherent in sustainable waste management

implementation.

Local Theories

The Barangay Governance Theory attributed to S. B. Caballero and R. E. Barquilla

(2016), underscores the pivotal role of barangays, the smallest administrative units in

the Philippines, in waste management efforts. According to this theory, barangay

officials play a central role in spearheading and coordinating waste management

initiatives within their respective communities. They work closely with residents, local

organizations, and other stakeholders to implement practical solutions tailored to the

specific needs and challenges of their barangays.

The Bayanihan Spirit Theory by Santos A. (2018) raw from the deeply ingrained cultural

value of Bayanihan in Filipino society. This theory emphasizes the importance of

community cooperation and collective action in addressing various challenges, including

waste management. At its core, the Bayanihan Spirit Theory suggests that by fostering

a sense of unity and collaboration among community members, individuals are more

likely to actively participate in waste management initiatives. Through collective efforts,

communities can achieve sustainable waste management practices and promote

environmental stewardship.

The Informal Economy Theory Medina M. (2017) focuses on the significant role played

by informal waste pickers in waste management systems, particularly in local contexts.

These informal workers often collect, sort, and recycle waste materials, contributing to

the overall waste management ecosystem. This theory suggests that integrating

informal waste pickers into formal waste management systems can lead to enhanced

efficiency and inclusivity. By recognizing and incorporating the expertise and

contributions of informal waste workers, formal waste management efforts can benefit

from their knowledge and experience, leading to more effective and sustainable

practices.

The Ecological Solid Waste Management (ESWM) Theory advocates for a

comprehensive approach to waste management that takes into account environmental,

economic, and social aspects. This theory emphasizes various strategies such as waste

reduction, segregation, recycling, composting, and proper disposal, all within the context

of the local community. By integrating these practices, ESWM aims to minimize the

environmental impact of waste while promoting sustainable resource management and

community well-being.
The Decentralization Theory discussed by J. M. Carino (2015) focuses on the transfer

of decision-making authority and resources from central government to local

government units (LGUs). In the Philippines, decentralization has granted LGUs like

Tandag City greater autonomy in governance, allowing them to tailor policies and

initiatives to local needs and priorities. This theory examines how decentralization

influences the implementation of waste management policies by empowering LGUs to

take proactive measures in addressing waste management challenges. It also highlights

the crucial role of local leadership in driving change and fostering community

engagement in waste management efforts.

Foreign Theories

Community-Based Participatory Research (CBPR) is an approach that emphasizes

collaboration between researchers and community members to address local issues. It

recognizes the expertise and knowledge within the community and seeks to empower

community members to actively participate in the research process. Applied to waste

management, CBPR involves engaging residents of Tandag City in the research

process, from problem identification to solution development. By involving community

members as partners, CBPR aims to co-create sustainable waste management

solutions that are responsive to the needs and priorities of the local community.

The Institutional Analysis and Development (IAD) Framework, developed by Elinor

Ostrom (1990), is a tool for examining how institutions govern common pool resources.

It focuses on understanding the rules, norms, and decision-making processes that

shape collective action within a community. In the context of waste management, the

IAD framework can be used to analyze the institutional arrangements and collective

action strategies that influence waste management outcomes in Tandag City. By

examining the roles of various stakeholders, the allocation of decision-making authority,

and the enforcement mechanisms in place, the IAD framework provides insights into the

governance of waste management resources.

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is a policy approach that shifts the

responsibility for waste management from municipalities to producers. This means that

producers are held accountable for the end-of-life disposal of their products, both

financially and operationally. By imposing this responsibility, EPR aims to incentivize

producers to adopt eco-design practices, reduce waste generation, and promote

recycling and reuse of materials. Essentially, EPR encourages producers to consider

the environmental impact of their products throughout their entire lifecycle.

The Socio-Ecological Systems (SES) Framework is a theoretical approach that

integrates social and ecological dynamics to understand complex environmental issues.

Developed by Elinor Ostrom and colleagues (2007), this framework emphasizes the

interconnectedness between human systems (such as societies, institutions, and

governance structures) and ecological systems (such as ecosystems and natural

resources).

In the context of waste management, the SES framework examines how human

behaviors, governance arrangements, and ecological processes interact to shape waste

management outcomes. It considers factors such as community norms, regulatory

frameworks, technological innovations, and ecological constraints to analyze the

effectiveness and sustainability of waste management practices.

The Theory of Diffusion of Innovations, developed by Everett Rogers (2003), examines

how new ideas, technologies, and practices spread within societies. It identifies key

factors that influence the adoption and diffusion of innovations, including the

characteristics of the innovation itself, communication channels, social networks, and

the characteristics of adopters.

In the context of waste management in Tandag City, this theory can help analyze the

adoption and diffusion of innovative waste management practices, such as community

composting or waste-to-energy initiatives. By understanding how these innovations are

perceived, communicated, and adopted by different segments of the population,

policymakers and practitioners can design more effective strategies for promoting

sustainable waste management practices.

REFERENCES

Local Theories

Caballero, S. B., & Barquilla, R. E. (2016). Barangay Governance and the Solid Waste

Management Act of 2000: A Survey of Selected Barangays in Leyte, Philippines. Local

Government Studies, 42(3), 440-458.

Santos, A. (2018). Harnessing the Bayanihan Spirit: Community Participation in Solid

Waste Management in the Philippines. International Journal of Sustainable

Development & World Ecology, 25(3), 256-267.

Medina, M. (2017). Integrating Informal Waste Pickers into Formal Waste Management

Systems: Lessons from Case Studies in Developing Countries. Journal of

Environmental Management, 195(Part 1), 131-138.

Carino, J. M. (2015). Decentralization and Solid Waste Management in the Philippines:

The Case of Tandag City, Surigao del Sur. Philippine Political Science Journal, 36(2),

132-148.

Foreign Theories

Ostrom, E. (1990). Governing the Commons: The Evolution of Institutions for Collective

Action. Cambridge University Press.

Ostrom, E., Janssen, M. A., & Anderies, J. M. (2007). Going beyond panaceas.

Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 104(39), 15176-15178.

Rogers, E. M. (2003). Diffusion of Innovations (5th ed.). Free Press.