The Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI) has officially launched the Manila Circularity Hub, the country’s first textile circulatory facility, located at the Payatas Controlled Disposal Facility in Quezon City.

The initiative, carried out in partnership with ANTHILL, Maybank Foundation, and the Quezon City local government, is part of PSFI’s Re-Shell: Weaving Waste Project, a two-year sustainability program under Shell LiveWire. The project aims to transform textile waste into reusable materials—such as uniforms and corporate giveaways—helping reduce landfill buildup and marine pollution while promoting community-based livelihood.

The Manila Circularity Hub currently houses 10 weaving looms, five of which were donated by Shell, and will train 10 women from Payatas to become community weavers. These women will be equipped with sustainable livelihood skills that enable them to create new fabrics and products out of discarded textiles. Additionally, 10 mothers from the non-profit organization Dear Me will undergo sewing training to further enhance their craft and expand income opportunities.

PSFI said the project reflects its long-standing commitment to social and environmental innovation, aligning with Shell’s 111-year legacy in the Philippines of transforming challenges into opportunities through sustainable partnerships.

“When you have partners who share your values, work becomes easier, lighter, and much more meaningful,” said Lorelie Q. Osial, President and Chief Executive Officer of Shell Pilipinas Corporation.

“What may be a waste to some can be a source of hope, livelihood, and dignity to others,” Osial added. “This kind of partnership is powerful because each of us brings something different to the table and somehow, all the pieces just found their way together, by grace and purpose.”

Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte lauded the launch of the hub, describing it as a major step toward addressing the growing problem of textile waste while promoting sustainable livelihood for local women. She said the city is proud to lead efforts in circular economy fashion, empowering residents to contribute to environmental solutions through creativity and resourcefulness.

The Re-Shell: Weaving Waste Project also forms part of PSFI’s broader mission to promote inclusive growth and community resilience. It complements the foundation’s LEAD (Leadership, Empowerment, and Development) program, which provides livelihood support and capacity-building training for marginalized sectors.

Through the Manila Circularity Hub, Shell and its partners underscore that sustainability is best achieved through collaboration and community participation. By turning waste into opportunity, the project embodies the belief that environmental responsibility and social progress can go hand in hand.

As PSFI continues to expand its social innovation efforts, the Textile Circularity Hub stands as a pioneering model of how businesses, local governments, and communities can work together to weave a more sustainable and inclusive future for Filipinos.