PH MSMEs tap new ASEAN circular tool to fight waste and skyrocketing costs

MANILA, Philippines — Micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the Philippines are getting a major sustainability upgrade in a bid to turn lofty “green goals” into hard-nosed business survival strategies.

"Many MSMEs recognize the growing importance of sustainability but still lack practical tools to turn commitments into measurable action. The circular economy provides a practical framework for MSMEs to demonstrate commitment and action,” said Jay Yuvallos, Chairman of the East Asia Business Council (EABC).

Yuvallos said that local MSMEs are joining a regional pilot of the Circular Business Check—a self-assessment tool designed to help small businesses slash waste, boost efficiency, and survive increasingly strict global market demands.

The initiative, backed by the European Union’s SWITCH-Asia Programme, places the Philippines alongside Indonesia and Thailand in testing the digital tool ahead of a broader regional rollout across ASEAN in September 2026.

While multi-billion-dollar conglomerates have dedicated teams to navigate Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) compliance, small neighborhood businesses and local manufacturers often find themselves left out in the cold.  To bridge this gap, the Circular Business Check acts as an entry-level digital diagnostic.

Yuvallos bared that the Circular Business Check allows business owners to assess their readiness to adopt circular economy practices such as reusing, recycling, and reducing raw materials; measure the effectiveness of their current eco-friendly initiatives and receive concrete, tailored recommendations on what practical steps to take next.

Why this matter for the Philippine economy?

In the Philippines, according to Yuvallos, MSMEs aren't just a market segment, they are the economic backbone. Citing data from the BSP Research Academy, it showed that MSMEs comprised 99.6 percent of all business establishments in the country with an employment rate of 67 percent, contributing some 40 percent to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) and an export revenue of 25 percent for the economy.

Yet, these very engines of growth are facing immense pressures. High utility costs, supply chain disruptions, rising labor costs, and bureaucratic red tape often threaten their daily operations. Transitioning to a circular model is no longer just about "saving the planet"—it’s about saving the bottom line, Yuvallos added.

"Circular practices can help address these pressures by improving resource efficiency, reducing input waste, cutting avoidable operating costs, and helping owners make better pricing, investment, and financing decisions," noted John Paolo Rivera, a senior research fellow at the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS).

By eliminating waste and reusing materials, small businesses can open up entirely new revenue streams while building resilience against unpredictable global supply chains. Furthermore, meeting these standards unlocks access to green financing and export opportunities, as international buyers increasingly refuse to work with high-emission, wasteful suppliers, noted Yuvallos.

Part of a larger regional push is the pilot program that was borne out of the East Asia Circularity Agenda, which was formalized during the 66th EABC Meeting in Tokyo under the co-chairmanship of the Philippines and Japan.

To solidify the initiative, Yuvallos signed a strategic cooperation charter alongside Thomas Thomas, President of the ASEAN Circular Economy Business Alliance (ACEBA), and Muhammad Firdaus Abdullah of ARAIBA Sdn. Bhd.

By simplifying sustainability into bite-sized, actionable steps, local business leaders hope the tool will strip away the intimidating corporate jargon surrounding ESG and empower the average Filipino entrepreneur to thrive in a rapidly greening global market. (Photos: Google Images)

DOST-7 launches Regional AI Roadmap to boost Central Visayas LGUs, MSMEs

CEBU CITY-- The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has announced a targeted strategy to establish regional Artificial Intelligence (AI) roadmaps aimed at empowering local government units (LGUs) and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

Unveiled at the 2026 Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (RSTW) at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel on July 13, the initiative, led by DOST Secretary Dr. Renato Solidum Jr. and DOST-7 Regional Director Dr. Tristan Abando.

The strategy focuses on transitioning the Philippines toward a value-added, knowledge-based economy through localized tech adoption. Rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, DOST's regional and provincial offices will collaborate directly with local governments and businesses to design customized AI roadmaps.

Abando noted that while local computing power is still developing, provinces can launch their plans immediately and scale up using national digital infrastructure over time to tailor AI strategies for local needs.

                                       4 Pillars Supporting Regional AI Integration

Abando bared that localized projects can bypass hardware limits by tapping into the centralized computing power of the National AI Center for Research and Innovation for high-performance computing access.  DOST will deploy expert teams to offer one-on-one assessments for MSMEs, helping them integrate AI, robotics, and automation into daily operations.

DOST’s newly launched Geospatial Analytics Technology Solutions (GeoSTATS) program combines GIS and AI to help businesses and LGUs optimize logistics, identify raw materials, and map out target markets for data infrastructure.

Throughout the RSTW 2026, matchmaking events connect grassroots innovators with venture capitalists, corporate partners, and commercialization pathways for funding and networking.

"This is our opportunity to make science real, tangible, and impactful to the daily lives of ordinary Filipinos," Secretary Solidum shared. The regional push aligns with DOST's "Pre-Horizon Strategy," focusing on practical science to prepare Central Visayas for a highly resilient, digital future.

By putting data, computing resources, and advisory support within the reach of local stakeholders, DOST-7 is driving a coordinated, inclusive digital shift to ensure Central Visayas is prepared for a smarter, more resilient future, Solidum said. (Photos: MBCNewman)

DOST-7 Pushes Smart Tech, MSME support & knowledge economy at Regional S&T Week

CEBU CITY — The Department of Science and Technology (DOST)-Region 7 pushed for Smart Technology, MSME support and knowledge economy at the Regional Science and Technology Week (RSTW), July 13-15 at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel with DOST secretary Dr. Renato Solidum Jr., reaffirming its commitment to use science and technology to transform lives and communities.

“DOST’s goal is to build collaborative relationships with local government units, the private sector, and communities to drive inclusive economic growth,” Solidum said at the RSTW opening day.

Anchored on the Pre-Horizon Science, Technology, and Innovation Strategy for Economic Development, DOST-7 is focusing on shifting to a knowledge economy and modernizing industries. Key initiatives include the establishment of Advanced Manufacturing Centers or "Smart Factories" that offer 3D printing for plastics, ceramics, metal, and concrete.

Innovators can submit designs for prototyping, with DOST-Bicutan’s facility cited as one of the most modern in ASEAN, Solidum bared.

To help MSMEs scale, DOST is rolling out a one-on-one Smart Factory approach. Teams of consultants will assist businesses in adopting AI, robotics, automation, and mechanization to boost productivity.

DOST is also leveraging data through its GeoSTATS Program, which combines geospatial analytics and AI to help MSMEs locate raw materials, production sites, and markets more efficiently.

On product quality, Sec. Solidum highlighted the role of the Industrial Technology Development Institute and the OneLab Network in helping businesses with testing, packaging, shelf life, and certification.

He also urged Congress to pass the National Measurement Institute Law to standardize calibration and ensure fair trade and public safety.

DOST is further connecting innovators to funding, corporate partnerships, and strategic opportunities through networking and commercialization events. Regions are also encouraged to develop their own AI roadmaps, with access to the National AI Center for Research and Innovation for higher computing needs.

"Our goal is simple, add value, scale up, and make sure no Filipino innovator is left behind," Sec. Solidum said. (Photos: MBCNewman)

 

 

Chinese Consulate in Cebu reiterates rejection of 2016 South China Sea arbitral ruling

 
CEBU CITY – The Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Cebu strongly reiterated Beijing’s rejection of the 2016 South China Sea arbitral ruling, in a media briefing held at the Mandarin Hotel in Cebu City on July 13 with Consul Zhang Zhen urging Cebuanos to focus instead on cooperation and regional stability.

The briefing and accompanying official statement from the consulate came in response to a recent "West Philippine Sea Victory Day" commemoration staged by certain individuals in Cebu City.  Consul Zhang criticized the event, describing the continued promotion of the arbitral award as a "farcical spectacle" that runs counter to regional aspirations for peace, development, and historical cooperation.

Zhang said the Chinese Consulate General reaffirmed Beijing's firm stance that the 2016 arbitral ruling is "illegal, null, and void," carrying no binding force. Consul Zhang argued that "loud rhetoric cannot substitute for legal truth," asserting that territorial sovereignty and maritime delimitation disputes fall outside the scope of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

The consulate cited China's 2006 declaration under Article 298 of UNCLOS, which officially excludes such disputes from compulsory arbitration procedures.

According to the consulate’s statement, the arbitration is viewed by Beijing as a violation of fundamental principles of international law, including state consent and pacta sunt servanda (agreements must be kept).

China maintains its historic rights and sovereignty over the South China Sea Islands (Nanhai Zhudao), asserting that its jurisdiction has been established through continuous and peaceful practice dating back to the Western Han Dynasty (200 B.C.), Consul Zhang bared.

The consulate argued that over the past decade, the ruling has failed to resolve maritime issues, serving instead as a tool to escalate regional tensions and invite destabilizing external intervention.

Appeals to Cebu-China Relations

Consul Zhang expressed deep regret over the local commemoration activities, stating they "move in the opposite direction" of the long-standing friendly relations between Cebu and China. She emphasized that the Chinese Consulate General remains deeply committed to fostering mutual exchanges, trade, and cooperation with Cebu.

Calling on Cebuanos and Filipinos of goodwill to see through the activities, Consul Zhang remarked that such events "serve no one except those who profit from sowing division." She urged the public to reject narratives that undermine bilateral ties and stability.

While the Chinese Consulate General pushes for bilateral negotiations and historical consultation to manage maritime disputes, the Philippine government continues to firmly uphold the 2016 arbitral award.

 Maintained under UNCLOS, the landmark ruling invalidated China's expansive maritime claims within the "nine-dash line"—a decision Beijing has consistently refused to recognize.

The Chinese Consulate General concluded its statement by reiterating its commitment to regional peace, declaring that attempts to play up the "illegal award" go against the regional trend toward development and prosperity and "are doomed to fail."

“Cebu has enjoyed long-standing friendly relations with China. The Chinese Consulate General in Cebu has always been dedicated to promoting exchanges and cooperation between China and Cebu,” Consul Zhang said. (Photos: MBCNewman)

 

Operation Smile Philippines establishes Cebu as its primary hub for Asia

 CEBU CITY— Operation Smile Philippines, in a major push to eliminate the surgical backlog for children born with cleft lips and palates in the Visayas, has formally established Cebu City as its primary hub for Asia and its largest global Center of Excellence, paired with the announcement of a massive multi-pronged fundraising campaign, aims to secure critical resources to sustain the center's holistic, year-round medical services.

Located on the 7th floor of the Cebu City Medical Center (CCMC), the Cebu Comprehensive Cleft Care Center of Excellence (CCE) spans an impressive 1,700 square meters, making it the world’s largest facility dedicated strictly to holistic cleft care. The state-of-the-art hub features 14 consultation rooms funded by Security Bank, which are projected to benefit more than 10,000 patients over the next five years.

"Operation Smile started in Naga City, Philippines, and has since expanded to over 60 countries," said Emiliano Romano, Regional Director for Asia. "Cebu is unique because the facility is fully owned by Operation Smile, serving not just as the Asia hub, but as a crucial global engine that contributes to the 400,000 free surgeries delivered worldwide."

Nationwide, the foundation has transformed more than 40,000 lives over the last four decades. Locally, the Cebu center has already completed over 1,000 surgeries and served more than 2,000 patients. The expansion comes at a critical time, as experts estimate a daunting backlog of roughly 45,000 untreated cleft patients across the Visayas region alone.

The milestone follows a grueling year for the center, which faced severe operational disruptions due to devastating regional typhoons, and extensive facility renovations.

Despite these setbacks, the foundation’s reach is expanding rapidly, thanks to a landmark institutional partnership. The Governor of Cebu recently signed a memorandum of agreement ensuring that every single child born with a cleft condition in the province is automatically registered with Operation Smile at birth. This allows the center to contact parents immediately, removing delays and delivering prompt, life-changing care.

To ensure families can access these free services without financial strain, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD-7) has stepped in to provide Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS), covering crucial external costs like fare, food, laboratory fees, and medicines.

Ramping up fundraising: Gala Night and Pickleball Tournament

To maintain the center's comprehensive care—which includes free surgeries, dental care, speech therapy, nutrition guidance, and mental health counseling—Operation Smile requires an average annual operating budget of P50 million. The center treats about 2,000 patients a year, with its holistic care packages ultimately impacting up to 4,000 children across various medical specialties.

To meet these demands, organizers have announced two major upcoming fundraising events in Cebu: The 3rd Annual Charity Gala Night--After being abruptly halted by an earthquake last year, the highly anticipated Charity Gala Night is returning to Cebu. Organizers aim to match last year’s impressive fundraising total of P50 to P60 million.

The evening will host prominent influencers, live entertainment, and an auction featuring valuable paintings and premium items.  Donors can sponsor an individual child's care for P40,000; purchase a corporate table; or secure a spot on the gala's dedicated "Partner Recognition Wall."

Another fund-raising campaign is the Inaugural Wiggle Lab Pickleball Tournament--Capitalizing on the explosive growth of the sport, Operation Smile is partnering with local organization Wiggle Lab to host a dynamic, two-day pickleball tournament targeting 360 athletes.

The event aims to generate at least one million pesos strictly through registrations and corporate sponsorships. Day 1 is dedicated to corporate and interclub brackets. Companies have already integrated pickleball into their wellness programs, and organizers are urging local HR departments to utilize their wellness budgets to field teams for the cause.  Day 2 is opened up to families, friends, and amateur pairings to foster community spirit.

"This tournament represents the perfect intersection of health, sports, and community service," noted Coach Arnell, a court consultant for Wiggle Lab. "It’s an incredible team-building opportunity for local companies to give back to a deeply worthy cause."

How to find help or donate

In the Philippines, an estimated one out of every 500 children is born with a cleft lip or palate, many of whom lack immediate access to safe surgical care. Families seeking free cleft care or individuals looking to support the foundation's mission are encouraged to sign up or get in touch: Website: operationsmile.org.ph. Social Media: "Operation Smile Philippines" on Facebook and call the Hotline: (0999) 936 5334.

Once registered, regional coordinators manage patient logistics, and the foundation will even fly eligible patients directly to their dedicated centers for treatment at zero cost to the family. (Photos: MBCNewman)