Approved on first reading by the Baguio City Council on March 31, 2025, a proposed ordinance adopts and promotes circular economy as a policy to achieve sustainable solid waste management. The measure, introduced by Councilor Betty Lourdes Tabanda, aims to maximize resource efficiency, reduce waste, and promote responsible production and consumption practices across the city.
The ordinance, titled the Circular Economy Ordinance of the City of Baguio, establishes a framework that encourages the continuous use, repair, and recycling of materials to minimize waste and optimize resource utilization.
Under the ordinance, the city government is mandated to practice and promote the 10R’s: refusing unnecessary consumption, rethinking product uses, reducing material consumption, repurposing waste into new products, and recycling materials. It also emphasizes repairing and refurbishing items to extend their lifespan, remanufacturing new items using old parts, and recovering resources from waste.
To oversee the effective implementation of the ordinance, the City Circular Economy Council (CCEC) will be established. The council will be responsible for planning, monitoring, and reporting circular economy initiatives.
The CCEC will be composed of city officials including the City Mayor as the Chairperson, representatives from the Baguio City Council, and various government offices such as the City Planning and Development Office, the General Services Office, and the City Environment and Parks Management Office. The CCEC will also collaborate with civil society organizations, the private sector, and representatives from barangays operating material recovery facilities.
The ordinance further promotes partnerships with national and international organizations, including the European Union-Philippines (EU-PH) Partnership for Green Economy. Through these collaborations, the city aims to implement innovative circular economy projects, develop green jobs, and strengthen livelihood opportunities. The measure also highlights the importance of community engagement by encouraging educational campaigns to raise public awareness about responsible waste management and sustainable consumption practices.
Funding for the ordinance will be sourced from any available funds under the City Mayor’s Office.
Following its approval on first reading, the ordinance will undergo further deliberations in the succeeding sessions of the City Council. Once fully enacted, it is expected to enhance Baguio City’s waste management strategies by promoting resource efficiency, reducing landfill dependency, and fostering a circular economy. **Desiree Geraga
