Senate President Win Gatchalian renewed his push for the immediate enactment of the proposed waste-to-energy (WTE) measure, following the President’s pronouncement that planned WTE facilities are the “only solution” to the country’s garbage mismanagement problem.
Gatchalian, author of Senate Bill No. 365 or the Waste-to-Energy Act, said the President’s statement underscores the urgency of a long-term solution to the country’s worsening waste problem, as underscored by the waste buildup following the recent southwest monsoon or habagat.
“Instead of clogging waterways, garbage would be diverted to power plants for additional power supply.”
“Sa WTE, mawawala na ang mga basura sa mga kanal na siyang dahilan ng mga pagbaha. Instead of clogging waterways, garbage would be diverted to power plants for additional power supply,” the veteran legislator said.
The Philippines generates an average of 22.9 million metric tons of waste annually. Based on the historical average annual growth rate of 1.72% from 2020 to 2024, waste generation is projected to reach 29.60 million metric tons by 2040.
“Waste generation is projected to reach 29.60 million metric tons by 2040.”
The seasoned lawmaker’s measure seeks to establish a comprehensive framework for the WTE industry and requires WTE strategies to be incorporated into national, provincial, and local solid waste management plans.
The senator also emphasized the environmental safeguards stipulated in the bill, which he underscored in two privilege speeches.
