Makati Business Club pushes for stronger framework to unlock WTE potential

The Makati Business Club (MBC) is calling for better coordination, regulatory clarity, and cost-efficiency strategies to unlock the potential of waste-to-energy (WTE) projects in the Philippines, amid growing interest in renewable solutions.

In a recent roundtable hosted by the MBC, representatives from government agencies, the private sector, and development institutions discussed ways to align policy and investment to make WTE projects more viable across the country.

“WTE holds promise for sustainable waste management and clean energy generation. But to scale successfully, we need a coordinated approach on infrastructure, governance and procurement,” the MBC said in a policy note issued after the session.

One of the key recommendations highlighted the need to address cost challenges. While landfill remains the preferred option for many local government units (LGUs) due to lower upfront investment, the MBC emphasized the long-term environmental and economic benefits of WTE, particularly with the right financing mechanisms and public-private collaboration.

The group also pointed to the need for clearer regulatory guidelines and stronger inter-agency coordination to support investor confidence and streamline project development. Participants suggested that a harmonized regulatory framework could significantly reduce risks and improve outcomes.

Securing a reliable supply of feedstock—municipal waste—was also discussed as essential. The MBC suggested that regional collaboration among LGUs could help ensure the consistent waste volumes required to support large-scale WTE operations.

The policy recommendations come ahead of the Department of Energy’s (DOE) plan to include WTE and biomass in its renewable energy auction later this year, opening new opportunities for private sector participation.

The roundtable was part of MBC’s broader effort to support sustainable infrastructure and inclusive development, following earlier closed-door consultations with industry stakeholders. The discussions reflect a growing consensus that, with the right reforms and partnerships, the WTE sector can contribute meaningfully to the Philippines’ environmental goals and energy security.