Manila: The House of Representatives on Wednesday approved on second reading a landmark bill establishing a national framework for the development, regulation, and operation of waste-to-energy (WTE) and other waste treatment technologies.
According to Philippines News Agency, House Bill (HB) 9157, or the proposed Waste-to-Energy Act, is a priority measure under the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC). It aims to strengthen the country's renewable energy portfolio while addressing waste management and flood control issues through modern technologies. The bill seeks to mitigate health and environmental risks associated with open dumpsites, clogged waterways, and untreated residual waste, promoting cleaner, more sustainable communities.
The measure targets local government units (LGUs), national government agencies, government-owned and -controlled corporations, waste management facilities, and public and private health facilities utilizing WTE technologies as part of their ecological solid waste management strategies. It requires compliance with strict environmental and emissions standards, along with the installation of Continuous Emission Monitoring Systems approved by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to ensure transparency and public accountability.
House Majority Leader Ferdinand Alexander 'Sandro' Marcos stated that the bill would transform waste into a long-term source of clean energy and economic opportunity. He highlighted that the measure contains safeguards to ensure responsible operation of WTE technologies within strict environmental standards. Marcos emphasized that the bill is not solely about energy but also about environmental protection and public health, with built-in monitoring, emissions controls, and accountability mechanisms.
The Department of Energy, the DENR, and the Department of the Interior and Local Government will oversee the implementation and enforcement of the proposed law, with the Department of Energy taking primary responsibility for regulations involving energy production by WTE facilities. The bill also offers fiscal and non-fiscal incentives for registered investors, pioneer WTE projects, and host LGUs to promote early adoption of innovative waste treatment technologies.
