Plastic Policy Development in the Philippines : Insights from Key Stakeholders Across the Plastic Value Chain

Overview & Synopsis

The Philippines’ blue economy - spanning maritime transport, fisheries, aquaculture, and tourism—is a growing contributor to economic output but is increasingly threatened by escalating plastic pollution. With substantial plastic leakage into the ocean each year, the environmental, socioeconomic, and public health impacts are significant, particularly for coastal communities reliant on these sectors. This report evaluates three policy reforms aimed at reducing plastic waste: the Extended Producer Responsibility Act, a proposed plastic bag excise tax, and a phased ban on single-use plastics. Using a combination of simulation modeling and stakeholder surveys, the analysis assesses environmental outcomes alongside distributional and behavioral impacts. Results indicate that, without reform, plastic waste and associated emissions will continue to rise sharply, while policy interventions can curb waste growth through reduced consumption and increased reuse. Successful implementation will depend on strengthening waste management infrastructure, ensuring viable alternatives to plastic, and supporting affected stakeholders, including informal workers, through targeted measures.