February 2025

In Asia, a region with many environmental potential and concerns, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and The Coca-Cola Foundation (TCCF) have joined forces to help solve the growing problem of managing plastic waste. Effective solutions are more important than ever because of the growing amount of plastic trash caused by rapid urbanization, the need for single-use plastics, and gaps in waste management infrastructure.

The region’s waterways allow a large amount of the world’s plastic garbage to enter the ocean, endangering human health, livelihoods, and marine ecosystems. Asia is home to 16 of the top 20 polluted rivers in the world, which generate over two-thirds of the plastic debris that enters the world’s oceans each year.

UNDP and TCCF are stepping up their efforts in nine Asian countries—Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, India, Maldives, Nepal, Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam—in response to this pressing issue. TCCF is providing a $15 million grant to boost UNDP’s regional activities.

The three-year multi-country programme launched in India today, will help improve plastic waste management, promote recycling, reduce plastic leakage into the environment, foster country-based solutions, and facilitate regional collaboration. By adopting and disseminating best practices across the region, the programme aims to inspire policy changes and community-level actions to reduce and help to eliminate disposable plastic and improve the livelihoods of waste workers.

While expanding successful initiatives, the programme will focus on developing innovative business models for waste collection and recycling, offering technical advice on environmental best practices and tapping into the latest technology to improve collection and recycling, to reduce plastic leakage.

“Tackling plastic waste isn’t just about cleaning up – it’s also about building a smarter development model. Across Asia, countries are combating the problem by embracing the circular economy. Through our Zero Waste and Plastics initiatives, we are helping them craft policies, attract investments, and reduce the consumption of single-use plastics,” said Christophe Bahuet, UNDP Deputy Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific. “With this initiative, we are also empowering communities to scale up solutions that will effectively reduce plastic pollution and safeguard our planet.”

“Collaboration is key to help improve waste management systems and strengthen recycling infrastructure. Through our collaboration with UNDP, the Foundation aims to advance solutions that minimize packaging waste, support better collection methods, and enhance processing capabilities. This approach not only helps address plastic waste more effectively but also contributes to long-term improvements in local communities and the broader environment,” said Carlos Pagoaga, President, The Coca Cola Foundation.

The APSSC houses three critical facilities: a Fire Substation, Community Police Assistance Center, and MDRRMO Satellite Emergency Operations Center. This integrated setup mirrors a similar complex in Alsons Dev’s Northtown township in Davao, further highlighting the company’s innovative approach to fostering public safety across its developments.

On January 14, 2025, the finished Alabel Public Safety and Security Complex was blessed and inaugurated by Alsons Development and Investment Corporation (Alsons Dev), marking an important milestone. The Alabel Public Safety and Security Complex, the first integrated emergency response center in the SOCCSKSARGEN region, is situated in Avia Estate, Alsons Dev’s master-planned community in Alabel, Sarangani. It is a state-of-the-art building that houses three crucial government functions.

The facilities were officially turned over from Alsons Dev to the Alabel city authorities at the inauguration. The Philippine National Police, the Bureau of Fire Protection, and the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office will then get the facilities from the Alabel LGU.

“The completion of the Alabel Public Safety and Security Complex represents Alsons Dev’s long-standing commitment to enhancing community development and well-being in Mindanao. By providing vital infrastructure and supporting local government initiatives, we can contribute to a safer and more prosperous future for Alabel and the broader Sarangani community,” said Miguel Rene A. Dominguez, President and Chief Executive Officer of Alsons Dev.

A one-stop hub for emergency services

The Alabel Public Safety and Security Complex, set to open to the public in the first quarter of 2025, is a pioneering one-stop hub designed to improve response times and coordination among emergency services, significantly enhancing the safety and security of Alabel and its neighboring areas.

“This complex stands as a powerful symbol of hope, security, and resilience. It is a testament of the foresight and unity of our local leaders. We wholeheartedly dedicate this facility to those tirelessly protect and serve our people – our courageous men and women in uniform.” shared Sarangani Governor Ruel Pacquiao.

The complex houses a Fire Substation equipped with modern firefighting resources to effectively respond to fire emergencies and a Community Police Assistance Center, providing a secure and accessible space for police operations. It also has an MDRRMO Satellite Emergency Operations Center that will serve as a hub for coordinating disaster response efforts, including monitoring, communication, and resource allocation.

L-R: Sarangani Governor Rogelio “Ruel” D. Pacquiao, Alabel Mayor Vic Paul M. Salarda, Alsons Dev President and CEO Miguel A. Dominguez, Provincial Fire Marshal-Sarangani FSupt. Reginald L. Legaste, PNP Alabel OIC Kathrina Alegarbes, and LDRRM Officer III Haweya Balangcas at the ceremonial turnover of the plaque for the Alabel Public Safety & Security Complex from Alsons Development & Investment Corporation.

“Since this will be officially turned over to the Municipality of Alabel, rest assured that it will be put to good use and will bring lasting benefits to our community. Our Public Safety and Security Complex, built with the invaluable support of our long-time partner Alsons Dev, the Alcantara Group, and its subsidiary, will serve as a vital asset for our residents. We are truly grateful for Alsons Dev’s unwavering support to the Municipality of Alabel.” said Mayor Vic Paul M. Salarda, MPA.

Alsons Dev’s first integrated emergency response complex in Davao City, the first of its kind in the nation, served as the model for the Alabel Public Safety and Security Complex. These advancements strengthen Alsons Dev’s dedication to meeting communities’ changing requirements and its position as a leader in public safety infrastructure and regional development.

Go to https://aviaestate.ph/ to learn more about Avia Estate.