INTRAMUROS, MANILA—Strengthening its commitment to raising environmental awareness, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) hosted a conference on recycling and circular economy with the theme “From Waste to Solutions: Building Partnerships for Sustainable Alternatives to Single-use Plastics” held at Intramuros, Manila on March 25. 

The program started with panel discussions on optimizing the waste-to-resource chain and unlocking business opportunities in the circular economy. It was followed by an exhibition of upcycled and eco-friendly products, and a roundtable discussion. Local government units in Metro Manila, non-governmental organizations, and recycling companies participated. 

“The Circular Economy project has already achieved remarkable results. We have organized 15 associations, primarily in Manila and Navotas. These associations have become more than just groups of waste workers — they are now empowered communities, equipped with the tools and knowledge to operate more effectively and improve their livelihoods. This initiative proves that when we invest in people, we create ripples of change that extend far beyond the individual,” PRC Secretary-General Dr. Gwen Pang remarked. 

“We are here not just to talk but to act — to find solutions, foster collaboration, and create long-term impacts for our communities and our environment,” she added. 

This initiative is part of the project titled “Promotion of a Green and Circular Economy Through Civil Society Engagement and Good Governance in Highly Urbanized Coastal Cities in the Philippines”, a three-year developmental project of the PRC, Spanish Red Cross, European Union, and Eibarko Udala that focuses in areas of Manila, Navotas, and Zamboanga City. 

It aims to educate local government units and private companies on the importance of solid waste management and provide livelihood opportunities to citizens through recycling, upcycling, and the creation of community savings groups.