Youth leaders gathered in Manila to advocate for Plastic-Free Solutions in ASEAN

Youth leaders from across Southeast Asia and Japan gathered in Manila for the ASEAN Youth Environmental Diplomacy Summit (AYEDS) 2026, which aims to highlight the crucial role of young leaders in advancing solutions to plastic pollution and driving environmental action under the theme “Championing Plastic-Free Action in the Philippines.”

Held on March 7 at De La Salle – College of Saint Benilde, the summit brought together environmental advocates, youth leaders, and key stakeholders to share ideas, propose initiatives, and collaborate on addressing plastic waste in their communities. Speakers at the event emphasized the role of youth in advancing this advocacy and shaping policies.

Katrina Navallo from the ASEAN-Japan Centre noted that across the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and Japan, these prevailing issues continue to threaten coastal communities and marine biodiversity, underscoring that plastic waste does not stop at borders; therefore, regional cooperation is crucial.

In a report released this year by the World Bank, the Philippines, along with Indonesia and Malaysia, remains among the leading contributors to plastic pollution in the world’s oceans. Much of the waste is driven by rapid urbanization in metropolitan areas, poor segregation systems, unsustainable consumerism, and inadequate waste management infrastructure.

Delivering her keynote address, Maria Cristina Francisco from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) emphasized the urgent need for stricter implementation of policies regarding waste and plastic. She highlighted key measures such as the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act and the Extended Producer Responsibility Law, which emphasize shared accountability across sectors in reducing plastic use.

“We want real and lasting solutions for these plastic pollution crises—and we [should] focus on [its] prevention,” noted Faye Ferrer, the Southeast Asia network organiser of Break Free From Plastic, stressing the importance of more systemic solutions to reduce plastic production and develop zero-waste communities.

During the summit, participants shared initiatives addressing plastic waste, demonstrating how local actions can contribute to broader environmental efforts. These included recycling programmes, campaigns promoting sustainable consumption, and efforts to reduce plastic use in schools. They also underscored the multifaceted nature of the issue, highlighting the need for stronger involvement from national leaders and relevant stakeholders to achieve meaningful progress.

The ASEAN Youth Environmental Diplomacy Summit is held in partnership with the ASEAN-Japan Centre, Break Free From Plastics, and the De La Salle – College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) School of Diplomacy and International Affairs.