CEBU, Philippines — The Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Malaysia-based ARAIBA Sdn Bhd, solidifying its role as the Philippine country lead for the ASEAN Circular Economy Business Alliance (ACEBA).
The agreement was formalized during CCCI’s General Membership Meeting on February 28, 2025, at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel.
“The MoU affirms CCCI’s commitment to championing the ASEAN Circular Economy Framework in the Philippines,” said ARAIBA chairman Thomas Thomas.
The collaboration, supported by EU SWITCH-Asia Policy Support Component (PSC), will focus on research, knowledge-sharing, and business case development to accelerate the country’s circular economy transition.
Ahead of the signing, CCCI hosted a workshop on circular economy opportunities, gathering industry leaders, government agencies, and stakeholders, including the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)and the Cebu City government.
During the workshop, discussions were focused on business innovations, sustainable waste management, and financing solutions.
A circular economy is an economic model that prioritizes keeping materials in circulation rather than discarding them as waste. It focuses on reusing, recycling, and refurbishing products to extend their lifespan. The main objective is to minimize waste and pollution while promoting ecosystem regeneration.
CCCI President Jay Yuvallos emphasized the growing momentum of circular economy adoption, saying leading businesses across various sectors have already begun integrating circular economy practices.
“Through this partnership with ACEBA, we aim to further equip businesses with the tools and knowledge to reduce their environmental footprint while driving economic growth,” Yuvallos said.
In an interview, ACEBA founding co-convenor Rene Van Berkel, explained the immense benefits of circularity.
“Circular economy is not just about recycling—it’s about creating value through sustainable products and services,” Berkel explained.
For her part, DENR Undersecretary Analiza Rebuelta-Teh amplified the importance of multi-sector collaboration to drive policy implementation and monitor progress.
"In line with the various policies supporting circular economy transition in the Philippines, there is a need to strengthen partnerships to ensure that all industries are on board, monitor progress, and measure impact. The DENR welcomes the various initiatives supporting the circular economy through ACEBA and the CCCI,” stressed Rebuelta-Teh.
With ACEBA’s backing, the CCCI-ARAIBA partnership aims to position Philippine businesses at the forefront of ASEAN’s transition toward a more sustainable and resilient economic model. — (FREEMAN)