Subic Bay Freeport – The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) caps off the year 2025 with global recognition from the Netherlands-based organization Green Destinations for its Recyclables Collection Program, which was featured in the 2025 Top 100 Stories list.

According to SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño, the agency was recognized for its Recyclables Collection Program as one of the “Good Practice Stories” in sustainable tourism from around the world.

With the winning story, “Recyclables Collection Program: SBMA’s Strategy to Implement Circular Economy,” the agency implements its circular economy strategy primarily through its flagship RCE, held twice a year. The program involves collaboration among stakeholders to manage waste, generate funds for charity, and achieve carbon neutrality goals.

“This the first international award of the SBMA for its sustainability efforts. The Recyclables Collection Event (RCE) is part of our thrust to make the Subic Bay Freeport Zone the first carbon-neutral economic zone in the Philippines,” he added.

Senior Deputy Administrator for Regulatory Group Amethya Dela Llana said the goal is to achieve a 30% reduction in emissions by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2040. The initiative aims to make the Subic Bay Freeport the first Green Port City in the country.

Dela Llana said the RCE is a multifaceted approach that transforms waste management from a disposal problem into an integrated system that creates resources, fosters community involvement, and supports social causes, embodying the principles of a circular economy.

SBMA Ecology Center Officer-in-Charge (OIC) Rossell L. Abuyo said, “The RCE is an event where SBMA departments, Subic Freeport companies, and residents donate or sell segregated common recyclables (paper, plastics, metals) and hazardous wastes (used oil, e-waste, busted bulbs, expired medicines).”

She added that proceeds from the sale of these materials are often donated to local charitable institutions like the Missionary of Charity house or used to provide grocery packs to utility workers.

The Green Destinations 2025 Top 100 Stories list highlights sustainable tourism initiatives from around the world, with winning stories announced at the Green Destinations Story Awards ceremony in March 2025.

The Sustainable Destinations Forum 2025 took place at Expo City Dubai from October 28–29, 2025, with the Green Destinations Top 100 Stories ceremony as part of the event. Both Dela Llana and Abuyo received the award at the forum.

Winners include Del Carmen of Siargao Islands, Philippines, for its transformation from mangrove cutting to a Ramsar site, and the Cayo District, Belize, for its sustainable tourism projects.