SeaTrace International and Marriott Manila held the 9th “Philippine Sustainability Movement Event”.
The event brought together key stakeholders from the Philippines and and foreign governments, embassies, chambers of commerce, environmental organizations, and the commercial sector, particularly in the hospitality and culinary industries, to stress the need for environmentally friendly sourcing and sustainable supply chains, with a particular emphasis on transforming food systems to more sustainable practices.
In his remarks, Christian Schmidradner, Managing Partner and COO of SeaTrace International Inc. and one of the event’s initiators, highlighted this year’s theme: “This year, the spotlight was on projects to transform food systems toward sustainability and on responsible sourcing within domestic and global food supply chains. We had more international organizations participating on our platform this time. The exchange of ideas between the participants and the creation of new collaboration projects was the goal, especially between the private sector, NGOs, and the government.”
The program also featured developments in organic farming, animal welfare certifications, and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) practices. Global pioneers such as Naturland in Germany and Control Union shared their knowledge of organic food production and sustainability certifications, while World Animal Protection pushed for animal welfare and ethical sourcing in food supply chains. Aside from animal welfare, World Animal Protection highlighted the issue of lost plastic fishing gear, a less well-known aspect of the plastic pollution problem.
Ocean conservation and fisheries management also were key components of the event, with discussions focusing on improving fishery management, promoting sustainable seafood supply chains, and protecting marine ecosystems and endangered species. Leading organizations such as Better Seafood Philippines, WWF, Seafood Watch Monterey Bay, and Oceana facilitated discussions on the importance of market links and certifications like MSC (Marine Stewardship Council). Special attention was given to illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, which continues to threaten the Philippines’ fisheries.
Over 40% of the country’s wild-caught seafood is derived from IUU fishing due to a lack of transparency and traceability in seafood supply chains. “Our oceans hold the key to both feeding the world and preserving our planet.”, stated Atty. Gloria Estenzo Ramos, Vice President, Oceana.’ “By supporting sustainable seafood practices, banning single-use plastics, and ensuring that accessible facilities to reduce fish waste and loss exist within reach to our artisanal fisherfolk and coastal residents, we can ensure healthier oceans and people, more harvests and income for fishers and better nutrition for all, without having to catch additional fish in the ocean.”
Private sector organizations, particularly those in the hotel and gastronomy industries, have taken an active role in implementing ESG regulations and supporting sustainable practices. “As a chef, it has always been my passion to create experiences that not only delight the palate but also respect and preserve the environment.” reflected Chef Meik Brammer, Executive Chef at Manila Marriott Hotel on his involvement. “Being a part of Manila Marriott’s journey toward achieving our ESG and sustainability goals, and contributing to the Philippine Sustainability Movement for a decade, has been a profound honor. In the last years Manila Marriott Hotel increased substantially its certified sustainable seafood ratio, is part of the Better Seafood Philippines sourcing program, focused on free range eggs, phased out plastic bottles from the rooms, installed an inhouse urban farm, amongst other sustainability initiatives. Together, we are not only shaping the future of hospitality but also nurturing a more sustainable future for the next generation.”
The event culminated in a gastronomy feast including responsibly sourced seafood dishes prepared by top culinary teams from renowned hotels and academies. Several CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) and ESG projects were on display, showcasing how businesses are paving the way to sustainability.
Congratulations on your successful event!
As the Philippine Sustainability Movement approaches its 10th anniversary in 2025, the platform continues to pave the way for greater environmental responsibility and sustainable practices across industries in the Philippines and beyond. Overall, we are happy that there is an increased participation of hotels, resorts, and restaurants for the Philippine Sustainability Movement Event meaning it’s an indication that a lot of businesses have high consciousness in their role to address overfishing and marine ecosystem degradation. And it is our job as consumers to be conscious and play our part in addressing the problem.
Live an Awesome Life,
ABI of Team Our Awesome Planet
Participating Organizations and Sponsors: ABS-CBN Foundation, AWC, Better Seafood Philippines, BFAR, Board BIA, BoomGrow, Braveheart, Brolos (Geraldton Fisherman Co-Operative), Canadian Trade Commission, CCA, City of Dreams, Concept Cool / Binca,
Control Union, French Embassy and Trade Commission, Gallagher Irish Premium Oysters, Gelato Manila, Greenpeace, Hilton Manila, Hospitality Innovations by Quorate Inc. Philippines (HIQ), Howard Consulting, Jameson, Louisbourg Seafoods Ltd., Marriott Manila, Marine Wildlife Watch, Mulwarra, Marine Stewardship Council (MSC), Naturland, New World Makati, Newport World Resorts, Oceana, Okada Manila, Okura Manila, Philippine Tuna Handline Partnership (PTHP), PYC/TAO Foods Company/One World Deli, Rare, Seafood Watch MBS, SeaTrace
International Inc., Sustainable Fisheries Partnership, Shangri-La The Fort, Sheraton Manila, Simbag, Sheraton Manila Bay, Solaire Resort, Tempus, Tsaa Laya, USAID Fishright, The Westin Manila, World Animal Protection, WWF Philippines, Yarra Valley Caviar.