Baguio City, Philippines – Feb. 12, 2026 — Project Reuse Haven for All (re_haven): Strengthening Community-Based Networks for a Scalable Reuse Ecosystem, also known as re_haven, is part of the EU-PH Green Economy Partnership, funded by the European Union in the Philippines as part of the EU’s Global Gateway initiative and spearheaded by DENR to support a green, just, and sustainable future, convened a successful stakeholder consultation in Barangay Gibraltar, in Baguio City, one of the target communities for the project’s rollout.
The consultation gathered barangay officials, residents, possible partner organizations, and private sector representatives to discuss sustainable practices and community-driven solutions for reducing plastic waste and promoting reuse in the barangay.
This activity builds on the momentum of the Circular Solutions Innovation Challenge, funded by the European Union and implemented by UNDP, which highlights innovative business solutions that drive sustainability and lay the groundwork for more inclusive and circular cities.
NutriAsia, makers of the Philippines’ best-loved condiments and sauces, participated in the consultation to better understand how the company can contribute to the success of Project re_haven. By engaging directly with community stakeholders, NutriAsia reaffirmed its commitment to environmental stewardship and to supporting grassroots efforts that promote plastic reuse and refilling.
“In order to address the plastic pollution crisis, we need every stakeholder to do their share. This consultation with leaders of Brgy. Gibraltar allowed the project leads to engage with stakeholders so they can better understand and appreciate the project and how it can impact their community.” Said Wally Panganiban, Corporate Affairs Manager of Nutriasia.
The consultation also highlighted the role of local innovators such as Tingi Station, co-founded by Elke Kayle Cadangen. Inspired by her childhood in Irisan near the city’s former dumpsite, Cadangen launched Tingi Station in 2022 to promote zero-waste shopping and reusable packaging. The store has become a model for circular economy practices in Baguio, demonstrating how grassroots innovation can complement Project re_haven’s goals.
Another key innovator, Salin Ph, led by CEO Krishia Ellis, who also consults for the Project re_haven, joined the consultation.
“At Salin Ph, we believe that plastic reuse is not just about reducing waste — it’s about reshaping consumption habits and empowering communities to choose sustainability every day. We are very happy with the re_haven initiative, and we are committed to helping reuse and refill become the default approach in reducing plastic waste at the source.
Barangay Gibraltar was selected as a pilot site due to its active civic participation and commitment to sustainability. Hon. Nemesio Huag, Punong Barangay of Gibraltar, expressed his strong support:
“Project re_haven is more than just an environmental program — it is a call for unity. By working together, we can make Gibraltar a model barangay for plastic reuse and sustainability, ensuring that our youth inherit a cleaner and greener future.”
He was joined by SB Member Grace Mayos (Women and Youth), who emphasized:
“Women and young people are at the heart of this movement. Their creativity and energy will drive the cultural shift toward reuse and sustainability.”
SB Member Zenaida Dana (Environment) added:
“Environmental stewardship begins at the barangay level. Project re_haven gives us the tools to act locally while contributing to global sustainability goals.”
The consultation marks a significant step towards building inclusive, community-led solutions that align with Baguio City’s broader environmental goals and the EU-PH Green Economy Partnership’s vision of greener local government units. Project re_haven will continue to engage other barangays in the coming months, creating a network of communities committed to reuse, resilience, and sustainability.
re_haven Project is a community-based reuse ecosystem initiative designed to promote circular economy practices at the grassroots level. By working closely with barangays, the initiative seeks to reduce plastic waste, encourage resource reuse, and foster community-driven environmental stewardship.
