As part of the Second Phase of the Cool Contributions Fighting Climate Change (C4II) Project, stakeholders recently gathered to participate in the revision of ecolabelling criteria for refrigerators and freezers. This initiative aims to align with Republic Act 11285 and the Philippine Energy Labeling Program (PELP), supporting the government’s mission to enforce Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) and promote voluntary ecolabels. Through these standards, the C4II project strives to encourage the adoption of energy-efficient, eco-friendly products that help reduce the carbon footprint of refrigeration equipment in the Philippines.
The program was opened by Mr. Frederic Tesfay of the German Agency for International Cooperation (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit) sharing his insights and visions regarding the progress and future of the C4II project. This was followed by the introduction of the Philippine Center for Environmental Protection and Sustainable Development (PCEPSDI) along with Green Choice Philippines.
Ms. Brenda Hazel Butardo of the Philippine Center for Environmental Protection and Sustainable Development, Inc. and the current Programme Officer of Green Choice Philippines, presented the revised draft of technical criteria for refrigerators and freezers to the stakeholders.
This was followed by a panel discussion and open forum, allowing stakeholders to voice their insights and suggestions. Esteemed panelists represented a range of influential institutions, including the Department of Energy – Energy Utilization Management Bureau (DOE-EUMB), Department of Energy – Energy Research and Testing Laboratory Services (DOE-ERTLS), Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB), Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Climate Change Services (DENR-CCS), Department of Trade and Industry – Bureau of Philippine Standards (DTI-BPS), International Institute for Energy Conservation (IIEC), Omni Solid Services Inc., and the Philippine Appliance Industry Association (PAIA).
The event was attended by a diverse array of stakeholders, including representatives from prominent organizations such as Philippine Green Building Code, RACTAP, PAIA, and EcoWaste Coalition, alongside key industry players like LG Electronics Philippines Inc., Panasonic Manufacturing Philippines Corporation (PMPC), and Kolin Philippines International, Inc. SGS Philippines Inc., RBIEL, Services OPC, TUV-Rheinland Phils., and Duinus Smart Tech inc.
Their involvement reflects a strong collaborative effort between government agencies, private industry, and consumer groups, all working together to champion sustainable practices in the Philippines. Through this stakeholder consultation, the National Ecolabelling Programme – Green Choice Philippines (NELP-GCP) is poised to make substantial strides in encouraging climate-friendly refrigeration equipment. With robust participation from multiple sectors, this initiative underscores a shared commitment to climate action and sustainable economic growth. Together, stakeholders are taking vital steps toward a greener, energy-efficient future for the Philippines.
