Environment Committee reviews CLENRO findings on MORC

THE City Council Committee on Environment, chaired by Councilor Roger G. Abaday, discussed last week the findings and recommendations of the City Local Environment and Natural Resources Office (CLENRO) on the operation of the Misamis Oriental Rendering Corporation (MORC) on July 19, 2024.

Based on the findings, odor emissions affected nearby communities with 100% of respondents reporting the presence of odors, with common descriptions including “patay na karne na giluto” (26.67%), “nilung-ag na itlog na bugok” (20%), and “bahong patay” (13.33%). The odors, with varying durations and intensities, were frequently detected in the afternoon.

The inspection also pointed out several sanitation issues, such as upgrading the feather hopper to stainless steel due to rust and blood stains, an open canal attracting flies, and an ammonia-like odor emanating from water discharge. Additionally, maggots were found near draft fans and scrubbers, indicating poor sanitation.

In response to these findings, CLENRO recommended increasing the sample size for future surveys, standardizing odor descriptions, and conducting regular follow-up surveys. They also suggested upgrading equipment, improving sanitation protocols, and covering open canals.

The committee plans to schedule another inspection soon to monitor the implementation of these recommendations.