MANILA, Philippines — As ASEAN economies experience rapid growth, resource consumption and waste generation—particularly plastics, packaging, and electrical and electronic waste—have reached critical levels across the region. To address these challenges, the Philippines convened policymakers, industry leaders, and civil society for the ASEAN Regional Dialogue on Circular Economy (ARDCE) from 22 to 23 September 2026 at the New World Hotel Makati.
Convened under the Philippine ASEAN Chairship 2026 and supported by the European Union–Philippines Green Economy Partnership—a €60 million flagship initiative under the EU’s Global Gateway program—alongside key international development partners, the two-day dialogue sought to accelerate the region’s transition from a traditional linear “take-make-dispose” model toward an inclusive, resource-efficient circular economy.
Driving Systemic Policy, Financing, and Inclusive Action
Guided by the ASEAN Framework for Circular Economy, the ASEAN Sustainable Consumption and Production Framework, and the ASEAN Regional Action Plan on Marine Debris, discussions focused on concrete implementation models across member states.
The ASEAN Circular Economy Stakeholder Platform (ACESP) actively contributed to key thematic sessions throughout the event:
- Session 3: Policy Instruments and System Enablers (Including EPR) — Co-hosted by ACESP alongside the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI), this session examined how integrated policy packages, robust Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) frameworks, eco-design requirements, and data governance systems can accelerate systemic market transformation.
- Sessions 4 & 5: Financing, Markets, and Just Transition — In close collaboration with the Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI), ACESP supported conversations on unlocking blended finance for circular investments, strengthening local markets for secondary materials, and ensuring social inclusion. Discussions emphasized formalizing livelihoods and integrating Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) as well as informal waste workers into emerging circular value chains.
Expressing Sincere Gratitude to Event Organizers
ACESP extends its deepest gratitude to the host institution, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Philippines, led by Environment Secretary Juan Miguel T. Cuna, for their leadership and vision. We also express our sincere appreciation to the ASEAN Secretariat, the European Union, and all supporting co-organizers and development partners for delivering a platform dedicated to translating policy commitments into tangible action.
Bridge to ACEF 2026 in Bangkok
The primary outcome of the Manila dialogue—the ASEAN Chair’s Summary on Circular Economy Policy and Implementation—captures key policy recommendations and implementation learning. This milestone output directly informs the agenda for the upcoming flagship ASEAN Circular Economy Forum (ACEF 2026), taking place from 5–6 October 2026 at the Eastin Grand Hotel Sathorn in Bangkok, Thailand.
