In response to the common Filipino practice of holding onto sentimental belongings due to uncertainty about disposal methods, PLDT Inc. and its subsidiary Smart Communications, Inc. have installed e-waste collection bins in select stores nationwide.
The initiative, spearheaded by John Y. Palanca, SVP and Head of Sales and Development, aims to promote responsible consumption and facilitate proper disposal of electronic devices.
Customers are encouraged to recycle old electronics such as telephones, routers, mobile phones, tablets, laptops, chargers, cords, batteries, power banks, and USBs at designated PLDT and Smart stores.
“We recognize the importance of raising awareness about circularity and responsible consumption among our stakeholders, by making it part of our daily store operations,” said Melissa V. Vergel de Dios, Chief Sustainability Officer at PLDT and Smart.
“Through this initiative, we hope to educate and inspire our customers to responsibly dispose of their old gadgets for proper handling and recycling, and join us in our drive to help protect the environment by promoting circular economy in the country,” De Dios added.
PLDT and Smart store frontliners received training from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources on e-waste management. They’ve partnered with SM Cyberzone and SM Cares to expand e-waste collection bins in malls nationwide.
This effort, which is part of the ‘Be Kind. Recycle.’ initiative launched in 2022, reflects PLDT’s commitment to promoting a circular economy and supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG No. 12 on Responsible Consumption and Production and SDG No. 17 on Partnerships for the Goals.