October 9, 2026 — Three representatives from Rizal Technological University (RTU), through its Research Management Office (RMO), participated in “The EPR Horizon: Unpacking the Potential of EPR Compliance,” an exclusive forum organized under INQUIRER ESG Edge Connect at Rockwell Center, Makati City. The forum aimed to strengthen collaboration among key stakeholders and drive meaningful action toward a circular economy.

Representing the University were Ms. Arvie Vales, Mr. Jake Louie Martinez, and Mr. Jaymar Pascua, Research and Project Assistants of RTU.

Carrying the theme “Advancing ESG: A Collaborative Gathering for Shared Action,” the forum explored the potential of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) compliance in advancing sustainability and promoting a circular economy. It highlighted the importance of collaboration among government agencies, private enterprises, and sustainability advocates in addressing waste management challenges and strengthening environmental accountability.

The forum featured Ms. Ruth Tawantawan, Assistant Secretary for Administration and Environment at the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), as its keynote speaker. The panel discussion brought together Atty. Juan Lorenzo Tañada, Vice President for Corporate and Regulatory Affairs at Coca-Cola Europacific Aboitiz Philippines (CCEAP); Bert Guevara, Vice President of the Philippine Alliance for Recycling and Materials Sustainability (PARMS); and Mari Martirez, Co-Founder and CEO of Rezbin Waste Technology Inc. The discussion was moderated by Juliet Javellana, Associate Publisher of the Philippine Daily Inquirer.

Through the insights shared by government and industry experts, the gathering emphasized the importance of strengthening EPR implementation, encouraging responsible production and consumption, and developing collaborative approaches to waste reduction and materials recovery. These discussions underscored the role of shared responsibility in translating sustainability commitments into meaningful and measurable action.

For RTU’s Research Management Office, participation in this engagement provided an opportunity to gain relevant perspectives on current environmental policies, industry-led sustainability initiatives, and emerging practices that may inform future research and development activities. Such engagements also reinforce the value of connecting academic research with real-world challenges and opportunities for sustainable development.