We Launch Our Consultancy Work for Pilot Projects on Reducing Marine Plastics in East Asian Seas
Our Team proudly announces the start of our consultancy engagement under the MOF/PEMSEA ODA Project on Reducing Marine Plastics in East Asian Seas Region.
This six year initiative (2023-2028), funded by the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries (MOF) of the Republic of Korea and implemented in partnership with the PEMSEA, is dedicated to addressing one of the regions most processing environmental challenges-marine plastic pollution-through innovative, sustainable, and community-driven solutions.
As consultants, we are tasked to develop detailed pilot project designs for six project sites in the Philippines-Sorsogon, Palawan, Samar, Cebu, Zamboanga del Norte and Surigao del Sur-and in four municipalities in Timor-Leste: Dili, Atauro, Manatuto, and Liquica.
Each project design will be site-specific, practical, and scalable, ensuring that local governments and communities can effectively implement them. Our pilot projects will explore diverse solutions, including:
- Installation of trash traps in waterways to prevent plastic leakage
- Establishments of plastic recycling and upcycling facilities
- Enhancement of existing Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs)
- Deployment of small collection vehicles to improve waste collection in hard-to-reach areas
To highlight the scope of this initiative, we are featuring selected images from each pilot site in the Philippines.
Bulan, Sorsogon
The municipality is upgrading its Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) with a high-capacity plastic shredder capable of processing over 2,000 kg of mixed plastic waste per day. This intervention aims to strengthen local recycling systems, enhance waste diversion to at least 50%, and support scalable solutions for marine plastic management.
Puerto Princesa, Palawan
The HABAL Project in Puerto Princesa City aims to reduce plastic leakage from congested barangays by improving waste collection and recycling efficiency. Six eco-vehicles will enhance last-mile waste collection in areas inaccessible to large trucks, while a plastic shredder will strengthen diversion efforts at the Material Recovery Facility (MRF). These interventions support the city’s segregation-at-source and circular economy initiatives, promoting cleaner waterways and more sustainable waste management.
Calbayog, Samar
The Ocean Shield Project aims to reduce marine plastic leakage by strengthening solid waste management systems. In Calbayog City, key interventions include installing trash trap, deploying CPCV-Eco Vehicles, and operating a heavy-duty baling machine to compact recyclable plastics by up to 80%. These initiatives will enhance waste collection, lower transport costs, and strengthen the city’s recycling value chain—contributing to cleaner waterways and a more sustainable coastal environment.
Daanbantayan, Cebu
Daanbantayan is establishing a Plastic Recycling Facility (PRF) to manage and repurpose plastic waste from households, markets, and coastal clean-ups. The facility will convert collected plastics into reusable materials and marketable products—reducing pollution, easing landfill pressure, and creating local livelihood opportunities. This initiative demonstrates how local governments can lead in integrating recycling technologies for environmental and economic sustainability.
Dipolog, Zamboanga del Norte
Dipolog City has been selected as one of the pilot sites in the Philippines to combat plastic leakage from Miputak Creek and nearby waterways—identified as key contributors to marine litter. Through the installation of trash traps at Sta. Isabel, Miputak Bridge, and Ramos Village, the project aims to intercept approximately 160 kg of waste per week, with around 120 kg consisting of plastics.
To further enhance waste management efficiency, the city’s central sorting facility will be equipped with a heavy-duty baling machine designed to compact plastics, reduce storage volume by up to 80%, and support barangay-level waste diversion initiatives.
Tandag, Surigao del Sur
Tandag City is establishing a Plastic Recycling Facility within the Tandag Ecological Park to enhance plastic waste diversion and reduce pollution in waterways and coastal areas. Equipped with high-capacity machinery for shredding, extrusion, and molding, the facility will transform plastic waste into reusable products, promote local livelihood opportunities, and support the city’s efforts toward sustainable and circular waste management.
Between April to June 2025, our team conduct site visits and validation workshops across the six projects sites in the Philippines. These activities will allow us to collaborate with Local Government Units (LGUs), Community Stakeholders, and Partners to finalize the project designs and prepare for implementation. Through this collaboration, we reaffirm our commitment to deliver solutions that are feasible, impactful, and replicable across coastal communities-paving the way towards cleaner seas, healthier ecosystems, and more resilient livelihoods in East Asia.