Philippines House submit Recycling Labeling Bill for packaging 
On May 18, 2026, a member of the Philippine House of Representatives introduced House Bill No. 9281, the Philippine Recycling Labeling Act of 2026. This proposed legislation is based on the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000 (RA 9003) and the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Act of 2022 (RA 11898). To promote proper solid waste management and the recycling of packaging materials, the bill establishes mandatory recycling labeling and labeling requirements for the packaging of all consumer goods manufactured in or imported into the Philippines.
Mandatory Recycling Labeling
This legislation applies to both primary packaging in direct contact with the product and secondary packaging such as outer boxes and bags. Covered products include food, beverages, household goods, personal care products (e.g., cosmetics and shampoo), and electronic devices.
Section 4 requires that all packaging of consumer goods manufactured in or imported into the Philippines bear the Philippine Recycling Label (PRL). The PRL must include the following information:
- Material Type
The material composition of the packaging, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), aluminum, and glass, including but not limited to these materials. - Recyclability Indicator
A clear indication of whether the material can be recycled within the Philippines. Where applicable, this must be categorized as: recyclable nationwide; recyclable only at specialized facilities; or not recyclable domestically. - Disposal and Handling Instructions
Clear guidance for consumers on proper disposal, including whether the item should be sorted as recyclable waste or as general solid waste. - Recycled Content Declaration
The percentage of recycled material used in the packaging must be specified, for example, “made with 30％ recycled plastic.” - Language Requirement
All required information must be printed in the English language.
Label Specifications
Section 5 sets out the design and placement requirements for the PRL as follows:
- The label must occupy at least two percent of the total surface area of the packaging.
- The label must measure at least two square centimeters for every one hundred square centimeters of packaging surface area.
- The label must be highly visible, with sufficient contrast, and placed where it is not obscured by other design elements. For flexible packaging, the PRL may be applied through printing, sleeves, packaging bands, or adhesive labels (stickers).
- The label may also be made available via an online database, accessible through a QR code.
The bill has been under deliberation in the House committee since May 18, 2026. The full text of the bill is available at the following URL:
https://docs.congress.hrep.online/legisdocs/basic_20/HB09281.pdf
Extended Producer Responsibility Act (Republic Act No. 11898)
https://legacy.senate.gov.ph/republic_acts/ra%2011898.pdf
