The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) is strengthening the role of local government units (LGUs) in the country’s transition to a circular economy, with a focus on better waste management, resource efficiency, and sustainable community programs.
The DILG joined the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and other agencies during the High-Level Interagency Roundtable on the National Circular Economy Framework held recently in Metro Manila.
Representing the department, Assistant Secretary Lilian De Leon reaffirmed the DILG’s commitment to helping translate national environmental policies into concrete action at the local level.
De Leon said the department will use local mandates, performance systems, and monitoring mechanisms to ensure that circular economy principles are integrated into local governance.
The effort is expected to support LGUs in improving solid waste management, reducing resource waste, and building cleaner and more resilient communities.
The roundtable brought together officials from the DENR, Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), and other partner agencies.
The initiative forms part of the DENR-led program supported by the EU-PH Green Economy Partnership under the European Union’s Global Gateway initiative.
The DILG said stronger coordination among national agencies and LGUs will be crucial in ensuring that the circular economy framework is not limited to policy discussions but implemented in communities across the country.