THE Metropolitan Manila Development Authority announced on Wednesday, Jan. 21, that it signed a memorandum of agreement with the Department of Energy to advance waste-to-energy projects aimed at easing Metro Manila’s growing garbage volume and reliance on landfills.
The agreement was signed by MMDA Chairman Don Artes and Energy Secretary Sharon Garin, marking a coordinated effort between national and metropolitan agencies to convert solid waste into electricity, heat, or fuel using industrial-scale technologies.
Officials said the project aims to complement solid waste management programs while providing an alternative energy source for the capital region, which generates thousands of tons of garbage daily.
The initiative also seeks to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support sustainable urban planning.
“We likewise recognize the crucial role of our local government units and stakeholders, whose active participation will be key to translating this agreement from policy into tangible action,” Artes said. “Through this partnership, we aim to advance a more effective, resilient, and sustainable approach to solid waste management in Metro Manila.”
Garin said the collaboration would break through institutional silos, allowing national energy objectives to be aligned with metropolitan planning and operational realities.
“Together, we share this responsibility to envision a cleaner, greener Metro Manila,” Garin said. “We commit to policy alignment, technical cooperation, and information-sharing, allowing our agencies to jointly explore opportunities and support pilot initiatives that can serve as models for other urban centers.”
The waste-to-energy program comes as the region struggles with limited landfill capacity, rising costs, and close monitoring to ensure environmental standards are met.
MMDA officials added that the partnership could also create new opportunities for local stakeholders, including technology providers and waste management contractors, while promoting public awareness of sustainable practices.
