Background

Plastic pollution remains a major environmental and socio-economic challenge in the Philippines, which is among the world’s top contributor to marine plastic waste. The country generates around 2.7 million tons of plastic waste each year, of which an estimated 20% ends up in the ocean. The country is among the top contributors to marine plastic pollution globally.

With a rapidly growing population, increasing consumption, and inadequate waste management infrastructure, the country faces mounting pressures to address plastic leakage into its waterways, coastal areas, and urban environments. The impacts are particularly felt in coastal provinces like Iloilo, where communities depend heavily on marine resources for food, livelihood, and tourism.  

Located in the Western Visayas region, Iloilo Province plays a critical role in regional development and environmental stewardship. It is home to vital ecosystems, including mangroves, rivers, and estuaries, that are highly vulnerable to plastic pollution. The province also hosts vibrant tourism, agricultural, and fishing sectors that are directly affected by poor waste management practices. In recent years, Iloilo has experienced a surge in single-use plastics, compounded by limited segregation, recycling, and disposal systems in both urban and rural areas.

Addressing plastic pollution in Iloilo is urgent—not only to protect its natural resources and biodiversity—but also to safeguard public health, promote sustainable tourism, and build resilient communities. Local governments, civil society, and the private sector are increasingly recognizing the need for circular economy approaches that reduce plastic use, enhance recycling and upcycling, and create green livelihoods. Strengthening these efforts in Iloilo can serve as a model for other provinces in the Philippines, demonstrating how localized, community-driven solutions can contribute to national and global goals on plastic waste reduction.