The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), led by Secretary Raphael P. M. Lotilla, has expressed support for the development of the country’s first large-scale waste-to-energy (WTE) facility in New Clark City in Tarlac — a ₱4-billion project that forms part of the Marcos administration’s broader push to strengthen environmental protection, enhance energy security, expand clean energy use, and promote sustainable urban development nationwide.
A consultation was recently held among DENR, the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), the project consortium, and representatives from the academe to discuss the initiative. The planned facility will have a capacity of 12 megawatts (MW) and will process up to 600 metric tons of municipal solid waste per day (600 MTD).
Positioned primarily as a modern waste management solution, the project aims to significantly reduce landfill dependence by cutting waste volume by up to 80–90 percent through controlled thermal treatment. This approach addresses long-term landfill scarcity while providing a structured and environmentally managed disposal system for local government units.
By utilizing proven waste-to-energy technology with over 70 years of global operational track record, the facility will generate multiple recoverable outputs, including clean electricity for the Luzon grid.
Equipped with state-of-the-art air pollution control and flue gas treatment systems, the plant is designed to comply with international environmental standards. Similar WTE facilities operate in countries such as Japan, Sweden, Germany, China, and Singapore, demonstrating safety and reliability when properly regulated and monitored.
DENR emphasized that, subject to strict compliance and environmental safeguards, modern WTE systems can form part of a science-based and responsible solid waste management framework.
BCDA President and CEO Joshua M. Bingcang emphasized the project’s contribution to national priorities:
“This project directly contributes to the national agenda of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. by strengthening environmental protection, supporting energy security, and introducing modern waste management systems. It demonstrates how infrastructure development can deliver long-term environmental and economic value for the country.”
Beyond environmental gains, the project is expected to generate over 300 jobs during its two-year construction phase and provide sustained employment over its projected 25-year operational lifespan.
Once operational, the WTE facility will further strengthen New Clark City’s position as a strategic growth center anchored on modern infrastructure and responsible environmental management.
