FROM TARPS TO TOTES: Iloilo, UNDP push circular economy with WOW program

By Mariela Angella Oladive

The Iloilo Provincial Government, through the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PGENRO), in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), launched the Weave Out Waste (WOW) Limpyo Iloilo program on Sept. 9 at the Iloilo Provincial Capitol.

Supported by The Coca-Cola Foundation through UNDP’s PH Plastics Circularity Project, the initiative converts post-election materials into marketable products such as grocery bags, wallets, placemats, and keychains.

Governor Arthur R. Defensor Jr. said the program reflects the province’s commitment to circular economy practices.

“The provincial government is committed to integrating circular economy practices into Limpyo Eleksyon 2025 as well as our future initiatives. We will continue to fulfill our work to promote sustainable use of resources, reduce plastic waste, and provide better local economic opportunities to communities across the province,” he said.

The launch builds on the province’s amended Executive Order No. 265, which expanded the Limpyo Eleksyon 2025 campaign into a circular economy program.

In May, the province collected more than 49,000 kilograms of post-election waste, with plastics accounting for over half.

Tarpaulins made up 34 percent, while flexible plastics comprised 16 percent, and these discarded materials will now serve as raw inputs for artisan enterprises under WOW.

The program also empowers marginalized groups—including women, informal waste workers, and other disadvantaged sectors—through training in design thinking, upcycling techniques, and entrepreneurship.

A two-day intensive skills training was held on Sept. 8 and 9 for 40 participants from Passi City and other Iloilo towns.

UNDP Philippines Resident Representative Dr. Selva Ramachandran said the project ensures not just product development but also market viability.

WOW is part of the broader PH Plastics Circularity Project, which also aims to improve local waste management systems and integrate circular economy principles into local government policies.

The project is implemented in partnership with the Iloilo Provincial Government and the local government units of Banate, Dumangas, Iloilo City, Passi City, and Pototan.