Ten more local government units have joined the sustainability bandwagon that aims to reduce waste, regenerate ecosystems and empower communities.
The European Union (EU) and the Philippines formally welcomed the next 10 LGUs into the EU-Philippines Green Economy Partnership last week
The partnership supports innovative solutions to address environmental challenges at local level that will improve the lives of the people in the Philippines and create green jobs.
The first 10 LGUs have already developed their own circular economy portfolios that identify system gaps and opportunities where innovation can make a meaningful difference ranging from plastic waste reduction and organic waste management to sustainable tourism.
“Today, we welcome the next ten LGUs in the partnership and count on their commitment, knowledge and innovation. The Philippine people can count on our experience in Europe, and we are here as Team Europe to support Philippine solutions,” said Dr. Marco Gemmer, head of the cooperation section of EU delegation to the Philippines.
The Green Economy Partnership is spreading across Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.
The new partners are San Carlos City (Pangasinan), Ilagan City (Isabela), San Jose del Monte City (Bulacan), Bacoor City (Cavite), Sorsogon City (Sorsogon), Maasin City (Southern Leyte), Cagayan de Oro City, Isabela City (Basilan), Koronadal City (South Cotabato), and Cotabato City (BARMM).
They represent diverse geographies and challenges but share the common goal of advancing inclusive, sustainable development through circular solutions.
Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Director Al Orolfo stressed the importance of adding 10 new cities to the fold.
“Today, we do not just expand the geographic scope… but also welcome new partners to the growing EU-PH Green Economy Partnership family,” Orolfo said.
The first 10 LGUs that the Green Economy Partnership have supported since 2024 are Baguio, Pasig, Quezon City, Caloocan, Iloilo, Ormoc, Davao, Puerto Princesa, the Island Garden City of Samal and Del Carmen.
Assistant Secretary Lilian de Leon of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) welcomed the onboarding of the next batch of cities as a significant step forward.
She noted that the increasing number of LGUs joining the bandwagon of good governance through sustainable circular economy practices fosters a culture of cross-learning and collaboration among key actors in the shift towards a green economy.
UNDP Philippines Resident Representative Dr. Selva Ramachandran said welcoming the next 10 cities into the partnership is not only about expansion but about strengthening the collective journey.
“This gathering is not only about introducing new cities. It is about deepening a movement and broadening our impact: where local action, supported by national policy and international partnership, drives a just and inclusive green future for the Philippines,” he said. UNDP Philippines News
