By: Marshal Alejo, Gracielle Gaoat, and Ron Marc Maranan (Benguet State University Inte

With hundreds of tons of waste generated daily in Baguio City, an alternative method is being explored to reduce biodegradable waste and turn it into a valuable resource.

The Black Soldier Fly (BSF) technology, currently being used at the BSF STP Sanitary Camp Site, is seen as a sustainable waste management solution.

According to Dr. Roland James “Doc Brahman” Bayang, head of operations, BSF larvae can quickly decompose organic waste, converting it into organic fertilizer and high-protein animal feed.

Each adult female BSF can lay 500-900 eggs before dying.

Once hatched, the larvae consume organic waste at a rate ten times their body size.

Within 12 days, they break down biodegradable materials, helping to reduce landfill waste.

Despite its effectiveness, challenges remain in collecting segregated biodegradable waste.

Bayang noted that many establishments and households still do not comply with proper waste segregation.

“We need greater support to scale up this initiative,” Bayang said. “There’s potential for significant cost reduction in waste management, but without proper backing, progress is slow.”

While adoption remains a challenge, advocates of the BSF technology remain hopeful that it will gain traction and contribute to a cleaner Baguio City.