The Virgin Mary Effect

In Peru, there’s this particular place that presents a panoramic view of two perfect cone-shaped volcanoes. It has become a tourist attraction that every time people pass by this road, they take time to witness the scenery and see such grandeur. As time progressed, the place looked abandoned because of heaps of dirt and piles of garbage around the area brought by nearby residents.

This condition has brought the attention of the Mayor, officials, and other stakeholders. Different efforts were implemented just to uphold the cleanliness in the area, but all of it remained futile.

Until one day, during a heated final discussion among the Mayor, the residents, and other stakeholders, an old fellow stood up and volunteered to address the problem. This old man used to be a contractor and he asked for $500 to solve the problem on the improper waste disposal in the said area. Everybody was puzzled, thinking that such amount seems to be impossible enough to solve the big problem. Reluctantly, they granted the old man’s request.

One year after, the team visited the place. Everyone was astounded. The place’s beauty was revived. The problem was solved.

How did it happen?

The old man installed a “grotto” for the Virgin of Guadalupe at a strategic spot. That place had turned dramatically from a trash spot into a sanctified one wherein people who happen to pass by offer flowers and presents. The extraordinary effect of an ordinary action may be explained by the culture and sensibilities of the community; knowing that the Virgin of Guadalupe is one of the deeply venerated icons in Central America.

Moral of the story: There are many ways on how to solve a problem. It does not need to be sophisticated or costly, but the rationale is to form a partnership, and capacitate the people involved. Apart from the constant consultation, the culture and religious beliefs contribute to the sensibilities of the community.

xxxxx

This anecdote I recorded way back 2015 made me reflect on the present action implemented for our partner growers’ challenge on hazardous wastes disposal. The problem seems to be complex that needs complex solution.

Per directive of DENR Department Order 92-29, all farm hazardous wastes shall only be hauled and transported by Accredited Hazardous Wastes Transporters listed by DENR-EMB, otherwise the farm management will face serious charges and litigations by the government agency. In view of this, my group has identified and directly coordinated with an accredited transporter and treater. The service package is a bundle of opportunity; those items which have value will be bought by the accredited transporter at a price dependent on the farm’s location. The good thing is that the other hazardous wastes which do not have commercial value will still be hauled and treated, free of charge.

The catch is that enforcement is costly and compliance is difficult. The program takes a lot of effort and constant communication with partner-growers. Basically, our company has to engage with its business partners towards the narrow road to sustainability.

So, when does the grotto-effect come in?

Perhaps, the grotto-effect is an end in itself. It may be just a form of symbolism that captures the sense of innovation. What matters most is the process of generating and communicating ideas, and seizing opportunities for improvement.

Further, as the societal and environmental issues on waste management that confront the whole organization are already recognized, the partnership must undergo three critical stages: Awareness, Commitment, and Implementation. Being aware on what the law requires is just the first step. The succeeding steps require conviction and consistency of management support.

Finally, as our company commits to preserve and restore the environment, the quest in producing our unique version of grotto is, perhaps, waiting to be ignited. By upholding God’s values of love, truthfulness, trustworthiness, discipline, and perseverance, the task may be difficult but that does not mean it is impossible. (Francis Manayan)