Assessment of Solid Waste Management Practices in Accommodation Establishments in Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija

This study assessed the implementation of Republic Act No. 9003 (Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000) in accommodation establishments in Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija. Using a quantitative descriptive-comparative design, data were gathered from 140 respondents (35 supervisors and 105 employees) through structured questionnaires. Descriptive statistics and independent-samples t-tests were applied to analyze business profiles, employees’ perceptions, participation in the 3Rs and composting, and challenges in solid waste management. Findings showed that establishments comply with visible practices such as segregation and collection, yet weaknesses remain in composting, resource recovery, and employee awareness. Supervisors consistently rated implementation higher than employees, with significant differences in environmental protection, systematic handling, awareness, recycling, and composting. Guest non-cooperation emerged as the most pressing challenge. A proposed Solid Waste Management Plan emphasizes waste reduction, staff training, recycling linkages, and composting systems. The study underscores the importance of aligning policy with practice and engaging both employees and guests.