As the Philippines marks the 25th anniversary of Republic Act No. 9003, the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act, the Philippine Business for Environmental Stewardship (PBEST) joins communities and stakeholders across the country in honoring this landmark law that continues to guide the nation’s journey toward cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable communities. For PBEST, RA 9003 is more than a policy milestone—it is a reminder that protecting the environment is inseparable from building inclusive growth, strengthening community resilience, and ensuring long-term national development.
Two and a half decades later, the principles of RA 9003 remain as relevant as ever. Solid waste management is a shared challenge that directly affects public health, flooding and drainage conditions, local sanitation, and environmental quality.
Strengthening waste reduction, segregation, collection efficiency, and diversion systems is not only a matter of compliance—it is an opportunity to improve services, protect ecosystems, and create more resource-efficient communities.
At PBEST, we believe that addressing plastic and solid waste concerns requires a whole-of-society approach, anchored on practical solutions and stronger collaboration among local governments, communities, and the private sector. This is why PBEST continues to champion a circular economy approach—one that keeps materials in use longer, reduces waste at the source, and supports innovation in recovery, recycling, and sustainable waste systems.
PBEST also recognizes the importance of policy advancements that strengthen shared responsibility and enable stronger implementation. We commend efforts that support the country’s transition to sustainable waste management, including the continued development of the Circular Economy Bill and the implementation of the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Law, which provides a clear framework for accountable and scalable recovery programs.
On this milestone year, PBEST calls on all stakeholders to strengthen partnerships and sustain momentum in building solutions that are measurable, inclusive, and achievable.
Together, by upholding the spirit of RA 9003 and advancing circular economy practices, we can move forward toward a cleaner, more resilient, and more sustainable Philippines for generations to come.