Baguio, Ormoc lead Philippines circular economy efforts

Baguio City and Ormoc City have been designated as leading local government units in circular economy development, according to an announcement from Baguio City's Public Information Office. The recognition came through the European Union-Philippines Partnership for Green Economy's Green LGUs Project, which evaluates municipal and city efforts to transition toward more sustainable, waste-reducing practices.

Both cities were named flagship local governments and top-performing project partners for their commitment and progress in implementing circular economy initiatives. The designation reflects their successful efforts to reduce waste generation, promote resource recovery, and develop sustainable economic models within their respective jurisdictions.

The Green LGUs Project represents a collaborative effort between the European Union and the Philippine government to strengthen environmental governance at the local level. The initiative focuses on helping cities and municipalities adopt circular economy principles—which prioritize reusing, recycling, and reducing waste—as part of broader strategies to achieve sustainable development.

The recognition of Baguio and Ormoc underscores the growing momentum among Philippine local government units to adopt environmentally responsible practices. As climate change pressures intensify across the region, such initiatives demonstrate how cities can balance economic development with environmental protection through innovative waste management and resource efficiency programs.