PCX Solutions report shows Philippines’ new EPR Law making an impact on plastic pollution

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The majority of large plastic producers met or exceeded targets in first year

New EPR Law creates recycling livelihood for communities

 

The Filipino people, economy, and environment have been heavily hit by the escalating plastic pollution crisis. The nation, which is made up of thousands of islands with a limited and fragmented waste management infrastructure, is one of the world’s largest contributors of marine plastic litter. This is made worse by the ‘sachet economy’, where brands deliver goods in small units that are affordable for the majority of the population.

Two years ago, the Philippines rolled out one of the world’s most ambitious laws on Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), which holds manufacturers accountable for waste resulting from their products and packaging to enable a circular economy. That act, which lapsed into law in 2023, requires companies with at least one hundred million pesos in assets to take responsibility for an increasing percentage of their plastic footprint, rising from 20% in 2023 to 80% in 2028.

A case study published by PCX Solutions, “Extended Producer Responsibility in the Philippines: Early Learnings and Insights for Emerging Markets Battling Plastic Pollution”, shows that while it’s still early days, the country’s approach to EPR is showing promising results.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ Environmental Management Bureau estimates that 2,130 businesses fall into the current Obliged Enterprise scope. The DENR-EMB reports that as of August 2024, a total of 947 companies had registered an EPR program. Together, those companies enabled the recovery and diversion of 163,000 metric tons of post-consumer plastic packaging waste in 2023.

While not all Obliged Enterprises complied in the first year, continued education efforts aimed at raising awareness and compliance levels are ongoing. Companies that don’t comply also face escalating fines, and ultimately the loss of their business license for repeated offenses. The majority of the largest plastic packaging producers have complied, and many went beyond the minimum 20% recovery target for 2023, indicating strong support among the country’s largest Obliged Enterprises.

There are still significant milestones to unlock, like dealing with decades of legacy plastic pollution; enabling policies to create the supply and demand for recycled materials and to reduce and eliminate unnecessary plastic packaging; further mechanisms and guidance to achieve social inclusion and just transition; and national standards to establish transparency, credibility and accountability, according to PCX Solution’s analysis.

But enacting and implementing EPR has allowed the country to see immediate results, start constructive discussions, realize and understand the gaps, and gather support from stakeholders through an inclusive and systematic approach, PCX Solutions says in its report.

“This case study offers insights and analysis for other developing countries in a similar situation to boldly and urgently address the problem, and for negotiators of the UN plastics treaty to consider innovative approaches and voices from the Global South,” said Stefanie Beitien, Managing Director of PCX Solutions.

There are already well-established EPR regimes in a number of developed markets, including Europe, Japan, South Korea and Taiwan, which typically involve government funded collection, sorting and processing of plastic waste.

The Philippines has taken a pragmatic approach and crafted an accessible law that makes these goals achievable. There are six upstream measures that can reduce their footprint, such as the use of recycled content, reusable packaging or refilling, and six downstream measures to recover their footprint, and plastic crediting is one of them.

“The Philippines’ approach shows that a market-based mechanism like credits, which facilitates the cleanup of plastic waste and encourages the private sector to invest in waste infrastructure, can play a pivotal role in supporting EPR laws - particularly in emerging markets that lack collection and recycling systems,” said Nanette Medved-Po, Founder of PCX Solutions.

Joseph Anthony Montecillo launches collection of horror fiction

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Writer Joseph Anthony Montecillo is celebrating the release of his debut collection of short fiction, In the Blood and Other Stories. A launch event marking the occasion is set to be held at Palm Tree Abbey, November 24, from 4-7 PM. The launch will include a program with first come, first served limited seating, followed by a book signing open to all attendees. Copies of the book will also be available to purchase at the venue at a discounted rate.

In the Blood and Other Stories is the debut collection of Joseph Anthony Montecillo with UP Press.

Published by the University of the Philippines Press, the collection collates fourteen of Montecillo’s short stories released over a decade of writing. This is the first time the stories have been collected into a single volume. All the stories had previously been published in anthologies such as the Philippine Speculative Fiction series or magazines such as Philippines Graphic or The Sunday Times Magazine.

Included in the collection are the titular story, “In the Blood,” about a mother trying to keep her sons from following in the steps of their serial killer father. In “Pressure and Release,” the stress of an EDSA traffic jam finally overwhelms an everyday bus driver. In “The Forgotten Bones,” a man who lives in a cemetery has an unexpected experience between the rows of tombs.

Joseph Anthony Montecillo signing copies of his book at the UP Press store.

“I’ve been fascinated by horror for as long as I can remember,” said Montecillo. “It’s always appealed to me and it’s no shock that my work moved in that direction through the years. I hope that this collection makes for an exciting addition to the long tradition of horror here in the Philippines.”

Joseph Anthony Montecillo made his first professional fiction sale at the age of 12. In the time since, he has published over 20 short stories, many of which feature dark or macabre subject matter. Outside of his writing ventures though, he regularly performs as a stand-up comedian around Metro Manila.

Joseph Anthony Montecillo is a writer and comedian who recently released his first book 

with UP Press.

For Montecillo, the connection between the two is natural. “I’m far from the first comedian to work in the horror field,” he said. “Both deal in instant feedback and the goal of leaving an intense and immediate sensation upon the audience. They go hand in hand in a lot of ways, and sometimes that comes across in a few stories in the collection.”

In the Blood and Other Stories is now available for purchase from UP Press’ on campus and online stores, as well as their stores on Shopee and Lazada.

The New Trust.ph Website Empowers Filipinos with Vital Reproductive Health Knowledge

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Trust Reproductive Health Choices, the commercial brand of DKT Health Inc., has officially announced during a virtual event today the launch of its newest website that offers reliable and accessible reproductive health resources for Filipinos. The online platform aims to establish itself as a leading digital hub for vital and empowering sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) information in the Philippines.

The site features a user-friendly and straightforward layout that enables users to find relevant resources easily and anonymously, ensuring they can access the information they need without worry. Other noteworthy features include:

● An empathetic AI chatbot named ai-Thea to answer users’ concerns and frequently asked questions

● Resources and interactive quizzes to help users determine the best contraceptive method for their needs and make informed choices

● Pregnancy assessment tools that support individuals in exploring their options early on 

● Digital magazines featuring expert articles, stories, and information on reproductive health and wellness

● Nationwide directory of stores and clinics offering accessible reproductive health services 

 A set of simple, straightforward questions helps suggest ideal contraception methods for your needs.

Get quick access to a list of trusted clinics offering sexual and reproductive health services near you.

The launch event kicked off with Miss Mela Habijan, a host and LGBTQIA+ advocate, as moderator, followed by an inspiring opening remark from Denise R. van Dijk, CEO and President of DKT Health Inc. “The new Trust RH Choices website is not just a source of information; it’s a safe space for individuals to learn, ask questions and explore reproductive health topics free from judgment,” van Dijk said. A short video presentation was presented afterward, providing an in-depth overview and guide to the mobile-friendly website.

 

Dr. Rica Cruz (top right) and Ms. Denise R. van Dijk (bottom) shared their insights and perspectives on reproductive health topics during the Q&A session moderated by Miss Mela Habijan (top left)

Dr. Rica Cruz, a prominent sex and relationships therapist and educator, was the keynote speaker at the event. Her presentation revolved around pressing reproductive health issues faced by Filipinos, particularly the country’s high teenage pregnancy rate, the rate of traditional contraceptive method users, and the continuously increasing HIV cases in the Philippines. Additionally, she highlighted the critical role of trustworthy and comprehensive platforms in reducing stigma and ensuring that individuals, especially the youth, have access to the information they need to make better choices. “Investing in reproductive health education helps people and enables them to thrive. It’s not about encouraging sexual activity, but rather empowering them through continuous development without judgment,” she remarked. 

As the country’s largest provider of contraceptives, the launch of the new Trust website reinforces the social enterprise’s ongoing mission to promote reproductive health literacy in the Philippines and drive positive social impact to communities in need. Learn more about the new website’s features and services by visiting trust.ph on any device.

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About Trust Reproductive Health Choices

Trust Reproductive Health Choices is the commercial brand of DKT Health Inc., a social enterprise at the forefront of sexual and reproductive health and rights in the Philippines. Their mission is driven by a deep commitment to creating a positive social impact. DKT is the largest provider of contraceptives in the Philippines. 

GameZone's Filipino Card Game: Uncover the Secrets of a Tongits Star

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In the vibrant tapestry of Filipino culture, a card game revolution is quietly unfurling. Tongits, a beloved pastime that has entertained generations of Filipinos, is experiencing a digital renaissance that's capturing the imagination of both seasoned players and newcomers alike. At the forefront of this transformation is GameZone, a platform that's not just bringing Tongits online but reimagining the entire Tongits experience.

The Enduring Appeal of Tongits

For Filipinos, Tongits is more than just a way to pass the time. It's a social glue that binds friends and family, creating unforgettable moments of laughter, rivalry, and camaraderie. The game's flawless fusion of luck and strategy keeps players constantly engaged, guaranteeing that no two games are ever the same.

What makes Tongits online truly special is its accessibility. The rules are simple enough for newcomers to grasp quickly, yet the gameplay is deep enough to keep seasoned players engaged for years. This delicate balance has cemented Tongits' place in Filipino culture and paved the way for its digital evolution.

Tongits isn't solely about the cards you receive; it's also about how you utilize them. The excitement of drawing a favorable hand, the thrill of outmaneuvering an opponent, and the satisfaction of pulling off a winning strategy all contribute to the game's enduring appeal. It's a game that rewards skill and quick thinking, making every match a test of wits and nerve.

GameZone: Revolutionizing Tongits for the Digital Age

Enter GameZone, the platform that's taking Tongits star to new heights by bringing it into the digital age. No longer confined to physical gatherings, players can now enjoy Tongits anytime, anywhere. But GameZone offers more than just convenience, it's reimagining the Tongits experience from the ground up.

With innovative game modes like Tongits Plus, Tongits Joker, and Tongits Quick, GameZone is injecting fresh excitement into the classic game. Each variant offers a unique twist, challenging players to adapt their strategies and keeping the gameplay fresh and engaging.

Tongits Plus offers the classic gameplay that purists love, with all the traditional rules intact. It's perfect for those who want to experience the game as it's been played for generations, but with the added convenience of online play.

Tongits Joker introduces a wild card element to the game, adding an extra layer of strategy and unpredictability. Players must now consider how to best utilize the joker card, opening up new possibilities for clever plays and dramatic turnarounds.

For those short on time, Tongits Quick offers a fast-paced version of the game designed for quick matches. It's ideal for players who want to squeeze in a game during a short break or those who enjoy a more intense, rapid-fire Tongits star experience.

The Rise of Tongits Stars

Perhaps the most exciting development in the world of online Tongits is the emergence of Tongits stars. These skilled players have honed their craft, rising through the ranks to become respected figures in the Tongits community. They're not just winning games; they're revolutionizing how Tongits is played, developing new strategies, and pushing the boundaries of what's possible in the game.

Becoming a Tongits star isn't just about winning games. It's about demonstrating skill, outsmarting opponents, and earning the admiration of fellow players. With GameZone's leaderboards and competitive matches, aspiring stars have a platform to showcase their talents and make a name for themselves.

These Tongits stars are more than just skilled players—they're ambassadors for the game. They're inspiring a new generation of players, sharing their knowledge through tutorials and livestreams, and helping to grow the Tongits community. Their rise has added a new dimension to the game, turning what was once a casual pastime into a competitive sport with its own heroes and legends.

Mastering the Art of Tongits

For those aspiring to Tongits star, the journey begins with mastering the basics. Understanding the rules, developing effective strategies, and learning to read opponents are all crucial skills. But in the world of online Tongits, adaptability is key. Each game mode on GameZone presents unique challenges, requiring players to be flexible in their approach.

Regular practice is essential, and online platforms make this easier than ever. Every game is an opportunity to learn and improve, whether you're playing casually or competing in high-stakes matches. Observing top players, staying calm under pressure, and developing your own unique style are all part of the path to Tongits mastery.

But becoming a Tongits master is about more than just winning games. It's about developing a deep understanding of the game's nuances, being able to read your opponents, and making split-second decisions under pressure. It's about knowing when to play it safe and when to take risks, when to go for a big play and when to bide your time.

The best Tongits players aren't just skilled at playing their own hands—they're experts at reading their opponents. They pay attention to every card played, every hesitation, and every tell, using this information to inform their own strategy. This level of awareness and strategic thinking is what separates the good players from the true Tongits stars.

The Social Aspect of Online Tongits

Online tournaments and events bring the Tongits community together, creating a sense of camaraderie and shared passion. Players can join clubs, participate in team events, and engage in friendly rivalries. This social aspect adds depth to the online Tongits experience, making it about more than just the game itself.

Conclusion: Your Tongits Journey Awaits

Whether you're a seasoned pro or a curious newcomer, there's never been a better time to dive into the world of online Tongits. The game offers a perfect blend of tradition and innovation, skill and luck, competition and camaraderie. It's a game that anyone can learn but takes a lifetime to master.

So why wait? Download GameZone, learn the rules, and start your Tongits journey today. Practice regularly, learn from your mistakes, and don't be afraid to try new strategies. Watch the top players, participate in tournaments, and immerse yourself in the Tongits community.

Remember, every Tongits star started as a beginner. With dedication, skill, and a bit of luck, you might just become the next Tongits sensation everyone's talking about. The cards are in your hands - it's time to play them.

Teleperformance named among top 15 Best Companies to Work For™ in Europe

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Teleperformance is the only organization in the customer experience management industry to rank within the top 25 Best Companies to Work For™ in Europe

Fortune and Great Place To Work® have ranked global business services leader Teleperformance (TP) among the top 100 Best Companies to Work For™ in Europe for the second consecutive year, ranking 12th among multinational companies. TP is the only company in the customer experience management industry to rank within the top 25 Best Companies to Work For™ in Europe.

Companies on the 100 Best Companies to Work For^TM list dramatically outperform the typical workplace in Europe by creating consistently great work experiences, according to Great Place to Work®. Earning a spot on the list is an indicator of high levels of trust across the organization, with more employees from companies on the list reporting a consistently positive experience at work.

“Our people are at the heart of everything we do at TP,” said Alan Winters, TP Chief People Officer. “With a large diverse workforce, we hire and train for emotional intelligence and help employees grow to their full potential by sharing, listening and innovating – and a common thread through all of this is trust. We are encouraged and humbled by this feedback from our people across Europe who rated us so highly as a great employer. As the global leader in our industry, our goal is to continually be a great place to work in Europe and everywhere we operate.”

TP’s ranking on the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For^™ in Europe 2024 list is based on an analysis of confidential survey responses from TP employees across Europe¹ compared to confidential employee survey responses from employees in the region. TP employees overwhelmingly reported being treated fairly, regardless of their social and socio-economic status, gender, race or sexual orientation, and that TP provided a safe place to work. Companies on the 100 Best Companies to Work For^TM list dramatically outperform the typical workplace in Europe, as measured by a market study of European workers conducted by Great Place To Work®. 

“We are delighted to unveil our inaugural list of the 100 Best Companies to Work For^TM in Europe, created in partnership with Great Place to Work®, experts in evaluating corporate culture with decades of experience,” said Grethe Schepers, lists director, Europe at Fortune. “These companies have built environments where people thrive and feel included, driven by a shared sense of purpose - all backed by honest, detailed employee feedback. Congratulations to all the companies that have achieved this great recognition.”

Earlier this year TP received Great Place to Work® certifications in 69 countries, including 26 countries in Europe. Today, 97% of TP employees work in a Great Place to Work®-certified location¹.

Great Place to Work® is the global authority on workplace culture and employee experience. Its annual certification program is based on a rigorous methodology and independent employee feedback.