Aparri in the province of Cagayan is composed of 42 barangays, three of which are located in the coastal areas of San Antonio, Punta, and Maura. Collectively, these coastal areas combine a population amounting to nearly 15,000. As far back as their ancestors can remember, the residents in these areas defecated and dumped their garbage along the coast. As a result, the seashores of these barangays became known as the “longest toilet in the world.” These unsanitary practices led to high incidences of respiratory diseases and increased morbidity and mortality among its residents.

        Alarmed by the urgency of the situation, the municipal government launched a program to eradicate these unsanitary practices in 1993. The program initiated the following activities: (1) Dialogues and consultations with the residents; (2) A massive information and education campaign on the importance of a healthy mind and body, clean surroundings, protection, and conservation of the coastal environment; (3) Delivery of health services like free regular check-ups and distribution of medicines; (4) Construction of public toilets and end-user education on the maintenance of the toilets; (5) Installation of shallow pump wells; (6) Collection of garbage; (7) Establishment of a land-fill site in Barangay Maura; (8) Planting of trees along the seashores; (9) Creation of job opportunities through the municipal government’s self-employment assistance; and (10) Translation of municipal ordinances into barangay ordinances to give teeth to law enforcement at the lowest level of governance.

        After several years of program implementation, major improvements were seen. The mortality and morbidity rates dramatically declined while malnutrition was totally eradicated. All households had access to public toilets and potable water within a short distance from their homes. Additionally, the natural beauty of the shoreline was restored. The foul smelling “longest toilet” was converted into a favorite tourist destination attracting local and overseas tourists. Hotels, restaurants and beach sheds were constructed, all boasting with favorable occupancy rates. Approximately 202 poor families were provided with livelihood assistance and this increased their incomes by 50% to 150%. Tax collection also improved substantially. More importantly, people’s attitude and behavior towards health and environment changed drastically, making all these accomplishments possible.