The 21st Davao City Council has approved an ordinance allowing the City Government of Davao to participate in the Department of Energy (DOE) Special Auction Round for Waste-to-Energy (WTE). This move is part of the city's steps toward implementing the WTE project as a solution to its waste problem.
Understanding Biodegradable Waste
While biodegradable waste decomposes, it still takes several processes and time to become useful. Experts suggest that biodegradable waste, especially compostable items like food scraps, should not be added to landfills, as studies link such waste to increasing greenhouse gas emissions.
Ordinance Details
The ordinance authorizes the local government to apply and participate in the Special Auction Round under the Green Energy Auction Program (GEAP) for developing qualified renewable energy projects. This initiative aims to provide a long-term solution to the waste problem and contribute to renewable energy generation, citing Republic Act No. 9513, or the Renewable Energy Act of 2008.
"The City Government of Davao deems it necessary and advantageous to participate in the DOE Special Auction Round for Waste-to-Energy and to undertake all acts necessary or appropriate," the ordinance states. It further authorizes the local government and its representatives to apply and participate, and if successful, execute the supply contract under GEAP.
Auction Process
Councilor Louie John Bonguyan, chairperson of the committee on energy, said the DOE has allotted 213 megawatts (MW) for WTE projects. The city needs about 10-11 MW to implement WTE. He noted that participation does not guarantee inclusion but is a step closer to implementation.
After the auction, assessments, bidding, and pre-assessments will be conducted until October to determine qualification. "This is just the first step, as the city government has joined and is trying to apply for the Green Energy Auction," Bonguyan said on June 10, 2026.
Bonguyan added that Davao City is the only local government unit that applied, with most participants from the private sector. He hopes the city will be granted the energy it needs and renew its partnership with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (Jica) for WTE implementation, citing funding challenges.
Representatives and Requirements
The ordinance designates Assistant City Administrator Atty. Tristan Dwight Domingo as authorized representative, Atty. Luchie G. Sasing-Elias as alternate, and Genevieve G. Gamueta as official observer. Bonguyan assured that before construction, the WTE facility will undergo all environmental, emissions, and solid waste policy requirements.
The local government has long pushed for the WTE project despite strong opposition from environmental groups over possible negative effects.
