Iloilo City launches first PH waste-to-energy project

By Mariela Angella Oladive

In a move toward sustainable urban development, Iloilo City has taken a pioneering step with the launch of the Philippines’ first waste-to-energy project.

The Iloilo City Government, under the leadership of Mayor Jerry P. Treñas, cemented a landmark joint venture on March 1 with MetPower Venture Partners Holdings, Inc., along with Metro Pacific Water Investments Corp., and Metro Pacific Iloilo Water, to construct an innovative Integrated Solid Waste Management Facility (ISWMF).

This forward-thinking initiative, scheduled to begin construction in October 2024, is heralded by Mayor Treñas as a historic achievement for Iloilo City.

The ISWMF, valued at an estimated P2.3 billion, will be established over three hectares in Barangay Ingore, La Paz. It is engineered to process 475 tons of waste each day, converting this into up to 3.5 megawatts of renewable energy.

The project is not only a testament to environmental commitment but also presents an economic boon by reducing the costs tied to the existing Calahunan sanitary landfill operations.

Additionally, the energy produced is set to contribute to the power needs of the city’s desalination plant, thereby ensuring a more affordable water supply for Iloilo’s residents.

Mayor Treñas conveyed the city’s share in the generated energy, reflecting a partnership that benefits both the city’s infrastructure and its people.

Andrew Pangilinan, President and CEO of MPWIC, thanked the city for its steadfast support and acknowledged the project’s pivotal role in community progress.

In his remarks, Jose Maria Madara, President and CEO of MetPower Venture Partners Holdings, Inc., committed to fast-tracking the permit process while adhering to the stringent environmental standards mandated by the DENR.

“We are confident that we will be able to meet those standards,” Madara affirmed.

The waste-to-energy facility is expected to significantly transform Iloilo City, setting a benchmark for sustainable practices and economic efficiency, and reflecting the city’s resolve in leading the charge towards a greener Philippines.